Building à Bordeaux en Gironde

Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The idea of a royal square and a uniform facade of the docks bordering the Garonne 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 initial project, supported by intendant Claude Boucher, was validated in 1746 by the jurats of Bordeaux, marking the beginning of a major urban transformation.

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

The ground floor, originally designed as public or commercial spaces, now houses shops. Some arcades have been modified to adapt to these modern uses. Despite these transformations, the whole remains a major testimony of Bordeaux's classical urban planning, marked by a desire for symmetry and grandeur. The elements protected since 1951 include facades and roofs, with a return to Rue des Faures.

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