Place des Quinconces, Bordeaux
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Place des Quinconces - by Christian Bello on Google
Description
The Place des Quinconces in Bordeaux is shaped as a long rectangle rounded off by a semicircle with trees planted in quincunxes (five points arranged in a cross shape), hence the name. It is one of Europe largest squares. It most preeminent feature is the Monument aux Girondins, a 54m tall column crowned by a liberty statue that was erected at the end of the 19h century to commemorate the Girondists (a political faction) who fell victim of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. There are also two columns facing the Garonne symbolising commerce and navigation.
Access & Transport
The square is located just north of the city centre and acts as its main transport hub with 3 tram lines (B, C, D) and over 20 bus services.
Instructions & Recommendations
We recommend combining a visit there with a walk along the quais to check out the water mirror and Place de la Bourse. The Triangle d'Or neighbourhood and the Jardin Public are also nearby.
Environmental & Social
The main energy consumption is for the water fountains, otherwise we deem this activity to be environmentally neutral. Part of the city's artistic and architectural heritages.
Conclusion
The Place des Quinconces and Monument aux Girondins are one of the visual highlights of the city; quite a change from the beautiful old buildings and square of the city centre, this is a very wide space where columns, sculptures and water take center stage. It is not "unmissable", but we do think it is worth a detour and 20-30mins admiring the various sculptures.
Key positive
Impressive column and fountain with an interesting history
Walking distance to other attractions and served by 3 tram lines
Key negative
Difficult to get a good view of the entire square
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:0h 45m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo