The big bell of Bordeaux

The Big Bell of Bordeaux is a Gothic bell tower in the historic center featuring two round stone towers connected by a central arch and reaching 40 meters high. The massive bronze bell inside weighs around 7,800 kilograms and is easily spotted from the street thanks to its distinctive stone structure.

Built in the 15th century as the Saint-Eloi gate, it served as both a defensive fortification and a prison for unruly youth. Over the centuries, it evolved into a symbol of the city and remained a central feature of urban life.

The bell carries Latin inscriptions that describe its functions: calling citizens to arms, marking hours, announcing festivals, and warning of fires in Bordeaux. These engravings show how central this structure was to the daily life of the city.

The tower is visible from ground level and can be viewed from the surrounding square, where you can fully appreciate its medieval architecture. The site is easily accessible on foot, and the area offers several parking options and a bicycle-sharing station nearby.

In 1548, King Henry II removed the bell as punishment for a local uprising, but returned it in 1561 after the city demonstrated good conduct. This episode reveals how deeply the monument was tied to the city's political history.

Location: Bordeaux

Inception: 15 century

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Height: 40 m

Operator: CYKLEO

Address: Rue Saint-James, 33000 Bordeaux, France

GPS coordinates: 44.83518,-0.57205

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:31