Place de la Bourse & Water Mirror
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Place de la Bourse & Mirrors - by anonymous on Google
Description
Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirrors facing have become emblematic of Bordeaux. The square was built in the mid-18th century and was originally called place Royale before changing a few times and settling in its current one in 1848. It is framed by two symmetrical buildings: the Palais de la Bourse (Stock Market) and the Hôtel des Douanes (Customs building), their current fonction has shifted but still retains a strong link. The sculpture Three Graces dates from 1869 and represents three of Zeus daughters symbolizing beauty (Aglaé), happiness (Euphrosyne) and wealth (Thalie). The Water Mirror covers 3,450m² and is the world's largest reflecting pool. It is located on the quay of the Garonne, opposite Place de la Bourse and is made of granite slabs covered by 2 cm of water with a system creating mist over it along a set time cycle.
Access & Transport
Located along the banks of the Garonne River, Tram C and D and Bus C stop there. It is also walking distance from the city centre and most of Bordeaux touristic sights.
Instructions & Recommendations
The water mirrors operate in a ~25mins cycle from 10h00 to 22h00 except in the winter. We recommend combining this activity with a walk along the river, a visit of the Triangle d'Or neighbourhood, of the Quartier Saint Pierre or of Place des Quinconces.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally, the water volume is not very large (only 2cm thickness albeit on a wide surface) Part of the city's architectural heritage.
Conclusion
The Water Mirror has cleverly raised the profile of one of France's most impressive squares to an iconic level - a great pay off for a city that has invested in its infrastructure and modernisation since the mid-1990s. Whether or not you are lucky enough to get the mirror effect we think Place de la Bourse is a sight not to be missed and the water feature is great fun for kids and adults alike.
Key positive
Water mirror is a fun place for kids
Very grand facade with harmonious buildings
Key negative
Difficult to get the mirroring effect during the tourist season (with kids running around)
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo