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Origin and history

The building at 30 quai Richelieu in Bordeaux is part of an ambitious 18th century urban project aimed at creating a royal square and a homogeneous facade along the banks of the Garonne. This project, initiated by the intendant Claude Boucher in 1746 after the approval of the jurats, was based on plans presented by architect Jacques Gabriel in 1729. The latter built the Quai de la Douane and the first facades in 1731, laying the foundations for a rigorous architectural order.

When Boucher died, the project was taken over by Aubert de Tourny in collaboration with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques Gabriel. In 1748, the monumental perspective was completed, extending the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse) by a series of uniform buildings. These buildings, characterized by a ground floor with arches in the middle, two square floors and a Mansard attic, formed a coherent whole despite some later alterations, such as the disappearance of wrought iron balconies.

The facades, protected since 1951, retain original elements such as the splits, carved patterns of the arcade keys, and window frames. Although shops today occupy the ground floor, partially changing the arcades, the ensemble retains its historical character. This project illustrates the urbanistic ambition of the Enlightenment in Bordeaux, combining port functionality and architectural prestige.

The location of the building at 30 quai Richelieu corresponds to the address recorded in the Merimée base, although geographical accuracy is considered poor (note of 5/10). The building, although not open to the visit, remains a major testimony of Bordeaux classical architecture and its integration into the river urban landscape.

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