The big bell of Bordeaux
The big bell of Bordeaux, Gothic bell tower in historic center, Bordeaux, France
The Grosse Cloche features two round stone towers connected by a central arch, reaching 40 meters high with a massive 7,800-kilogram bronze bell.
Built in the 15th century as Saint-Eloi gate, this medieval entrance served as both a defensive fortification and a prison for misbehaving youth.
The bell bears Latin inscriptions detailing its functions: calling citizens to arms, marking hours, announcing festivals, and warning of fires in Bordeaux.
The bell rings only five times annually: January 1st, May 8th, July 14th, August 28th, and November 11th, preserving its structural integrity.
King Henry II removed the bell in 1548 as punishment for a local revolt but returned it in 1561 when the city demonstrated good behavior.
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: June 23, 2025 09:39
City of light and stone, Bordeaux tells a piece of French history with every street. From the gilded facades of the 18th century to the redesigned quays along the Garonne, the Gironde capital combines classic elegance with modern dynamism. Strolls can be enjoyed among the columns of the Grand Théâtre, the reflections on the Water Mirror, the streets of Old Bordeaux, and the lively terraces of Saint-Pierre. Here, wine is not just a beverage; it's a culture. The Cité du Vin, museums, and traders remind us that vineyards have shaped the identity of an entire region. Bordeaux is also a forward-looking city, influenced by alternative venues like Darwin, bustling markets, and UNESCO-listed heritage. A city that embodies both tradition and innovation, blending art, cuisine, and river calmness.
Bordeaux offers numerous photography sites from the medieval Porte Cailhau to the modern Cité du Vin. The city features historical gates, stone bridges, public gardens, and architectural landmarks. Photographers can capture the Gothic Basilique Saint-Michel, the neoclassical Grand Théâtre, and the Place de la Bourse with its water mirror. The Darwin Ecosystem presents urban culture venues, while the Quai des Chartrons provides waterfront views.
Rue Sainte-Catherine
220 m
Aquitaine Museum
236 m
Synagogue
227 m
Église Saint-Éloi de Bordeaux
90 m
Couvent des Annonciades
377 m
Palais des sports de Bordeaux
97 m
Église Saint-Paul-Saint-François-Xavier
190 m
Hôtel Saint-François
153 m
Marché des Douves
54 m
Hôpital-prieuré Saint-Jacques
110 m
Statue of Hercules
245 m
Barjo games Bar games
159 m
Musée Goupil
238 m
Hôtel Gradis
109 m
Maison dorée
80 m
Mairerie
190 m
Hôtel Raba
199 m
Victoria hotel
261 m
BAG_Bakery Art Gallery
150 m
École de médecine et de chirurgie
307 m
Place Fernand Lafargue
213 m
Enceinte médiévale de Bordeaux
69 m
Boutique du 34 rue des Ayres
238 m
Tour du Greffe
60 m
Maison de Montaigne
374 m
Immeuble, 28 rue du Mirail
165 m
Maison, 13 rue des Menuts
315 m
Maison, 2 rue Pilet
285 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes