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. As early as 1729, the architect Jacques Gabriel proposed three projects, then built in 1731 the Quai de la Douane and its facades. This initial project, supported by intendant Claude Boucher, was validated in 1746 by the city's jurats for the creation of a first dock.

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 built, extending the Place Royale (future Place de la Bourse) towards the river. This project creates a homogeneous architectural order: a ground floor with arches in the middle of the hangar, two square floors, and an attic with the Mansard pierced with skylights. The facades, although partially altered (disappearance of balconies or wrought iron supports), retain their original character thanks to their frames and larmies.

The arcades on the ground floor, originally designed to unify the whole, have sometimes been modified by the installation of shops. Despite these transformations, the building of the 18 quai Richelieu still embodies the 18th century urban ambition in Bordeaux, combining port functionality and architectural prestige. The facade and roof have been protected since 1951, highlighting their heritage value.

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