Palais de la Bourse, Neoclassical trading palace in Place du Commerce, Nantes, France.
Palais de la Bourse is a neoclassical trading building located in Place du Commerce that was constructed over several decades starting in 1790. Its western facade features ten ionic columns and allegorical statues created by Jean-Baptiste-Joseph Debay.
Construction began in 1790 under architect Mathurin Crucy but was delayed by the French Revolution, finally completing in 1815. Following heavy bombardment during World War II, it was reconstructed according to Crucy's original design.
The building displays four statues of famous sailors on its eastern side, reflecting Nantes' importance as a port city and commercial hub. These figures represent the maritime traditions that shaped the city's prosperity.
The building sits in central Nantes and is easily reached on foot from nearby attractions. Today it houses a Fnac retail store, making it accessible to visitors exploring the city center.
The building survived the 1943 bombardments of World War II, making it a rare example of wartime resilience in the city center. This survival story led to its registration as a historic monument in 1947.
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