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 built the Quai de la Douane and the facades bordering the river, marking the beginning of a major urban transformation. These first achievements are part of a desire to modernize and embellish the city, carried by the local authorities of the time.

Upon the death of the intendant Claude Boucher, who had initiated the project by obtaining in 1746 the agreement of the jurats for the creation of a quay, Aubert de Tourny took over the work. He collaborated with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques Gabriel, to complete the monumental perspective in 1748. This architectural ordinance, characterized by an arcade ground floor, two square floors and a Mansard attic, extends the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse) and offers a remarkable stylistic unit. The facades, although partially altered by the disappearance of some balconies or wrought iron supports, retain their original character thanks to their carved frames and larmies.

The arcades on the ground floor, originally designed to house commercial or administrative activities, were gradually occupied by shops. These transformations, although partially changing the original aspect, testify to the continuous adaptation of these spaces to the economic needs of the city. The façade and roof of the building located at 14bis quai Richelieu were protected by a registration order in 1951, thus recognizing their heritage value in the architectural ensemble of the Bordeaux docks.

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