Place du Parlement

Place du Parlement is a square in central Bordeaux surrounded by historic stone buildings from the 18th century with a neoclassical fountain at its center. The fountain was constructed from golden limestone and stands among arcaded buildings that preserve the character of the period.

The square was established in 1760 as a royal marketplace called Place du Marche Royal. It was renamed during the French Revolution and eventually received its current name in connection with local governance.

The buildings surrounding the square display ornately decorated facades with carved masks, horizontal bands, and wrought iron balconies typical of 18th-century construction. These decorative details reflect the wealth that wine trade brought to Bordeaux.

The square is accessible at any time and can be reached on foot or by public tram lines. Cafes and restaurants are located in the arcaded buildings, offering places to sit and watch the activity around you.

The fountain at the center displays carved faces representing Neptune, Bacchus, and carnival characters reflecting traditional Bordeaux symbolism. These masks, known as mascarons, were a typical decoration found on buildings of wealthy trading cities in the region.