Building à Bordeaux en Gironde

Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The building is part of the urban project of Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse) and the docks of the Garonne, initiated in the 18th century. In 1729, architect Jacques Gabriel proposed three plans to structure this space. In 1731 he built the Quai de la Douane and the first facades, marking the beginning of a homogeneous architectural ordinance. This project aimed to create a monumental perspective between the square and the river, with arcades, square floors and Mansard attic.

Upon the death of intendant Claude Boucher in 1746, his successor Aubert de Tourny re-launched the project with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques. In 1748, the uniform facade was completed, extending the Place Royale towards the Garonne. The buildings, including this one, have an arcade base, carved windows and original frames. Despite the disappearance of some wrought iron balconies, the ensemble retains its historic character, although shops on the ground floor have sometimes altered the arcades.

Ranked Historic Monument in 1951 for its facade and roof, this building illustrates the architectural heritage of Gabriel and Tourny. Its style, combining classicism and port functionality, reflects the urban ambition of Bordeaux in the Enlightenment century. The stone skylights, the larmiers and the carved motifs are reminiscent of this period, when the city modernized to assert its commercial and political role.

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