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, the architect Jacques Gabriel proposed three projects, before building in 1731 the Quai de la Douane and its facades. This project, supported by Intendant Claude Boucher, aims to structure the urban space along the river.

When Boucher died, the project was taken over by Aubert de Tourny, in collaboration with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques. In 1748, a monumental perspective was completed, extending the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse) towards the Garonne. The homogeneous facades consist of an arcade ground floor, two square floors and a Mansard attic, decorated with wrought iron sculptures and balconies.

The arcades, partially altered by the installation of shops, retain their original character thanks to the preserved frames and larmiers. In 1951, the façade and roof of the building located at the 8th Quai de la Douane were classified as Historic Monuments, highlighting their heritage value in the architectural complex of the docks.

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