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 to structure this space. Two years later, in 1731, he made the Quai de la Douane and the first facades bordering the river. This initial project, supported by intendant Claude Boucher, marks the beginning of an ambitious urban transformation.

When Boucher died, his successor, Aubert de Tourny, took over the project in collaboration with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques Gabriel. In 1748, a monumental perspective was completed, extending the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse) towards the river. This architectural ordinance is characterized by a ground floor with arches in full hanger, two square floors and a Mansard attic, decorated with stone skylights. The facades, although partially altered (disappearance of balconies or wrought iron supports), retain their unit thanks to their original frames and larmies.

The arcades on the ground floor, originally designed for public or commercial use, now house shops. Some changes have affected their integrity, but the whole remains a major testimony of Bordeaux's classic urban planning. The façade and roof of the building located at 32 Richelieu Pier were protected by a registration order in 1951, highlighting their heritage value.

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