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, the architect Jacques Gabriel proposed three projects, before building in 1731 the Quai de la Douane and its facades. This initial project, supported by intendant Claude Boucher, led in 1746 to the acceptance of the jurats for the creation of a first quay.

When Boucher died, Aubert de Tourny took over the project with Ange-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques Gabriel. In 1748, a monumental perspective was erected, extending the Place Royale (now Place de la Bourse) towards the river. This architectural ordinance is characterized by an arcade base in the middle of the hangar, two square floors and a mansard-drilled roof. The façades, although partially altered (disappearance of 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 unify the whole, have sometimes been modified by the installation of shops. Despite these transformations, the homogeneity of the facades, marked by slits and carved motifs at the keys of the arcades, bears witness to the urban ambition of the eighteenth century. The façade and roof of the building at 53 Richelieu wharf have been protected since 1951, highlighting their heritage value.

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