Miroir d'eau, Reflecting pool at Place de la Bourse, France.
The Miroir d'eau is a large shallow water surface on Place de la Bourse made of granite slabs just a few centimeters deep. The flat expanse alternates between being a still mirror and producing fine mist effects that spread across the square.
The installation opened in 2006 as part of a major redevelopment of Bordeaux's waterfront area. An old underground storage space beneath the square was converted to house the technical systems that power the water effects.
The water surface links modern design with the classical buildings around it, creating a conversation between different times. Visitors find themselves reflected among the old architecture, which makes the space feel both contemporary and rooted in tradition.
The water feature operates from April through October and is best experienced on warm, dry days. It is freely accessible and easy to reach, so you can visit at your own pace without worrying about fees or complicated arrangements.
The system uses a large underground reservoir to create both still reflections and sudden bursts of mist that spray several meters into the air. These moments of transformation happen throughout the day and keep visitors wondering what will happen next.
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