Place Fernand Lafargue

Place Fernand Lafargue is a pedestrian square in central Bordeaux surrounded by historic stone buildings, cafés, and restaurants along its edges. The open layout creates distinct zones where people can walk, sit, and linger while observing the activity around them.

Originally named Place du Vieux Marché, the site functioned as a medieval marketplace and served as a public execution ground with a pillory structure. This role defined the location for centuries until urban changes transformed it into a modern space.

The space serves as a meeting point where street performers entertain and people gather at surrounding cafés for conversation. It functions as a social center where daily life in Bordeaux unfolds naturally throughout the day.

The square is easily accessible via tram line A at Sainte-Catherine station and sits approximately 100 meters from the main shopping street. The pedestrian-friendly design makes exploring the area and stopping at outdoor tables particularly convenient.

The space functioned as a parking lot for decades before being converted into a car-free zone in 2010. This shift allowed the square to recover its historical role as a genuine gathering place for the community.