Place de la Bourse, the symbol of the city

Published on April 4, 2023 at 1:00 pm

The Place de la Bourse, originally known as the Place Royale, faces the Mirror of Water, the largest mirror in the world. This square is a tourist attraction. Surrounded by two buildings, the Palais de la Bourse and the Hôtel des Douanes, it is designed to bring visitors and residents together. Its buildings, fountain and water mirror make it a place not to be missed. The square's modernity has contributed to the development of trade and the city's reputation. The Miroir d'Eau is one of the most popular spots in Bordeaux, with children and adults alike enjoying the lively atmosphere of this spot and getting wet. Some even go surfing and have fun gliding on the water. Located opposite the quays of the Garonne, it's the ideal place to capture photos with your loved ones.

Summary

History of the Place de la Bourse
Why go there?
When should you visit?
Where to stay nearby?
Practical information

History of the Place de la Bourse

The Place de la Bourse represents the elegance and classicism of Bordeaux. It is the symbol of 18th-century architecture. Inaugurated in 1749, its purpose was to erect the equestrian statue of King Louis XV and use it as a backdrop. The Hôtel des Fermes was built by Jacques Gabriel and his son Ange Gabriel built the Hôtel de la Bourse. The site was redeveloped in 2004 as part of the installation of the tramway line and the quays. Its architecture and décor make it one of the most typical buildings of the 18th century. The façade is magnificently mirrored by the water mirror opposite, and the Three Graces fountain, representing the daughters of God, is enthroned in the middle.

Selective construction focus, People love to visit Place de la Bourse at dusk, Place de la Bourse is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bordeaux, France.

Why go there?

This square is entirely pedestrianised, with access only for trams. It faces the Garonne between the Quai du Maréchal Lyautey and the Quai de la Douane. You can stroll here in complete safety and let your children enjoy the water mirror while you contemplate the architecture opposite. Since 2006, the water mirror has become something of an attraction, with young and old alike enjoying the place and splashing about. The Place de la Bourse is a must-see during your stay in Bordeaux, and even on guided tours it will be presented to you, so you can learn more about it.

Cyclists crossing the Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux, France.

A whole host of events take place in front of the facade, with many people coming to party and dance. The façade is also used as an exhibition space for the Evento festival, as a backdrop for a Canadair aircraft and as a giant screen for the wine and river festival. The water mirror is only 2 centimetres deep and reflects all the buildings around it. It has 3 programmes: a mist mode, a mirror mode and a swimming pool mode. It covers an area of 3,450 m² and has an underground reservoir of 800 cubic metres.

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Miroir d'Eau on the Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France.

The water mirror was designed by fountain-maker Jean Max Llorca between 2005 and 2006 during the redevelopment of the quays. It is in operation every day between 10am and 10pm and is free to use. During the day, the atmosphere is a little more family-friendly than in the evening, when it's a meeting place for young people. There are a few spots nearby where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or picnic.

Place de la Bourse reflecting from the water mirror in Bordeaux, France.

When should you visit?

You can visit during the day or even at night, to see the difference in scenery and atmosphere. If you take a guided tour, you'll have the chance to see the technical aspects of the water mirror and its basement. The tour is led by a guide and a technician. Link to visit.

Where to stay nearby?

The Villa Foch Boutique Hotel and Spa in Bordeaux is 700 metres from the Place de la Bourse. The hotel features a gym, bar and spa.

Practical information

🚌 How do I get there?

To get there by tram, lines T, C and D stop at "Place de la Bourse". You can also walk, depending on where you are staying among the many hotels next to the square.

♿ Accessibility:

The water mirror is not accessible in winter, from November until April, due to maintenance. People with reduced mobility cannot access the infrastructure, nor can pushchairs or shoes with heels, which are prohibited. If you want to visit the Place de la Bourse by car, three underground car parks are available: under the Place Jean Jaurès, under the Cour du Chapeau Rouge and under the Place de la Bourse.

by Jude JONES

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