Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The idea of a royal square and a uniform façade along the banks of the Garonne in Bordeaux has gradually emerged. In 1729, architect Jacques Gabriel proposed three projects, then built in 1731 the Quai de la Douane and its facades. After the death of the intendant Claude Boucher, the project was taken over by Aubert de Tourny and Angel-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques Gabriel. This work is part of a desire for architectural harmonization between the city and the river.

In 1748, under the impulse of Aubert de Tourny, a monumental perspective was built, extending the Place Royale (today the Place de la Bourse). The facades, designed according to a homogenous order, include a ground floor and an arcade basement, topped by two square floors and a Mansard attic. The sculpted details, such as the arcade keys, and the wrought iron balconies (sometimes missing) highlight the elegant character of this ensemble.

The arcades on the ground floor, originally designed for public use, have been partially transformed into shops, sometimes altering their integrity. In spite of these changes, the unit is maintained thanks to the original frames and larmiers. The facade and roof, including the return to the course of Alsace, have been protected since 1951 by a decree of inscription to the Historical Monuments.

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