Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The idea of a royal square and a uniform facade along the Garonne gradually emerged in the 18th century. In 1729, the architect Jacques Gabriel proposed three projects to structure the docks, before building in 1731 the Quai de la Douane and its facades. This initial project, supported by intendant Claude Boucher, aimed to harmonize Bordeaux architecture along the river.

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 completed, extending the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse) with a homogeneous ordinance: ground floor with arcades, two square floors and attices at La Mansard. The facades, although partially altered (disappearance of balconies or supports), retain their original frames and larmies.

The ground floor arcades, originally designed to unify the wharf front, have sometimes been modified by the installation of shops. Despite these transformations, the ensemble retains its original architectural character, marked by splits and carved motifs with the keys of the arcades. Official protection in 1951 (fall and roof) underlines its heritage importance.

This building is part of a larger urban project, reflecting the ambition of the 18th century Bordeaux authorities to modernize the city and assert its prestige through monumental and coherent architecture. The collaboration between the Gabriels (father and son) and the intendants Boucher then Tourny was decisive for its realization.

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