The Place de la Bourse

History of the Place de la Bourse

Compared to Place Vendôme by Victor Hugo, Place de la Bourse was inaugurated in 1749 for a specific purpose: to serve as a framework for displaying the equestrian statue of King Louis XV. It was successively named Place Royale, Place de la Liberté and Place Impériale before adopting its current name. The equestrian statue, symbol of the monarchy, was cut down during the Revolution and replaced by a revolutionary symbol: the tree of freedom. It is here that the fountain of the Three Graces, which represents the daughters of Zeus, stands majestically today.

Located on the banks of the Garonne, the Place de la Bourse is a fine example of French architecture. Built on two floors, it is bordered by beautiful arcades, decorated with an attic and an entablature.

Redevelopment

The modernization of Bordeaux, in particular the work carried out on the quays and the arrival of the tramway, led to a redevelopment of the Place de la Bourse in 2004. The Trois Grâces fountain has regained its place in the center and candelabras of era were installed. A 5-level underground car park has been installed under the square to solve part of the parking problem in the city center. The works were entrusted to Michel Corajoud, under the leadership of the urban community of Bordeaux.

The monuments around the Place de la Bourse

The former Palais de la Bourse, north of the square, now houses the Bordeaux Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Hôtel des Fermes was converted into a National Customs museum in 1984. The square, located 10 minutes' walk from our real estate agency in Bordeaux, is distinguished by its pretty pediments and its mascarons. There are nearly 3,000 of them all over the city, on buildings and fountains. Since 2006, Place de la Bourse has attracted visitors, particularly children, thanks to its reflecting pool. This innovative system, which reflects the monuments of the square like the waters of a lake, covers more than 3,400 m² and is the largest water mirror in the world. It operates all year round from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. except in winter, due to the risk of frost. The spectacle on the granite slabs is especially spectacular at night, when the Place de la Bourse is illuminated. Undoubtedly one of the things to see absolutely if you plan to stay in rental in Bordeaux for a weekend or a longer duration. Among other suggestions for visits and activities in the city center of Bordeaux, do not hesitate to stroll around Place de la Comédie and visit the Grand Theater, cross the famous Pierre Bridge, have a coffee at Place des Quinconces or a glass of Saint Emilion with Chartrons. Place Gambetta is also one of the must-sees in the center of Bordeaux.