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, including that of the Quai de la Douane, carried out in 1731. This dock and its facades mark the beginning of an ambitious urban transformation, combining port functionality and monumental aesthetics.

In 1746, intendant Claude Boucher obtained the agreement of the jurats to create a first dock. At his death, his successor, Aubert de Tourny, took over the project with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques. Together, they completed in 1748 a monumental perspective extending the Place Royale (future Place de la Bourse), characterized by arches in the middle of the hangar, carved windows and square floors surmounted by attices at the Mansard.

The facades, although partially altered (disappearance of wrought iron balconies, transformation of the ground floor into shops), retain their unit thanks to their original frames and larmies. The architectural ordinance, classified as a Historic Monument in 1951 for its facade and roof, illustrates the urbanistic ambition of the Enlightenment in Bordeaux, combining royal prestige and commercial dynamism.

The 19 quai Richelieu, where this building is located, is part of a larger ensemble reflecting the influence of Gabriel, the major architects of the 18th century. Their work has long marked the Bordeaux landscape, symbolizing the link between the city, the river and central power.

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