Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The idea of a royal square and a uniform facade of the docks along the Garonne gradually emerged in the 18th century. In 1729, architect Jacques Gabriel proposed three projects to structure this space. Two years later, in 1731, he made the Quai de la Douane and the first facades bordering the river. This initial project, supported by Intendant Claude Boucher, marks the beginning of an ambitious urban transformation, although its complete outcome still takes years.

When Boucher died, intendant Aubert de Tourny took over the torch with Angel-Jacques Gabriel, son of Jacques Gabriel. Together, in 1748 they finished a monumental unified perspective, extending the Place Royale (now the Place de la Bourse) to the docks. This architectural ordinance is characterized by an arcade base in the middle of the hangar, two square floors and a mansard-drilled roof. The facades, although partially altered (disappearance of balconies or wrought iron supports), maintain their consistency thanks to their original frames and larmies.

The arcades on the ground floor, originally designed for public or commercial use, have sometimes been modified to accommodate shops. Despite these adaptations, the ensemble retains its stylistic unity, testifying to the urbanistic ambition of the Enlightenment in Bordeaux. The renditions and sculpted motifs of the arcade keys still underline today the prestigious character of this construction, classified Historical Monument since 1951 for its facade and roof.

External links