Palais Thiac, Historical courthouse in Bordeaux, France
Palais Thiac is a neoclassical courthouse in Bordeaux featuring twelve Doric columns framing its entrance. Inside, the building houses three courts: the Court of Appeal, Assize Court, and Labor Court, spread across fourteen courtrooms within its walls.
Construction took place from 1839 to 1846 under architect Joseph-Adolphe Thiac, and the building received historical monument protection in 1979. The neoclassical style was a deliberate choice reflecting 19th-century ideals of order and reason in judicial spaces.
The Montesquieu room displays portraits linking France's imperial past to modern justice, and visitors can see how the halls remain central to the daily work of judges and lawyers.
Access to the building is limited by court schedules and official opening hours, so check ahead before visiting. Security screening at the entrance is standard procedure, as with all active courthouses.
The central hall with its mixed classical columns and ornate coffered ceilings still serves as an informal meeting space where lawyers and court officials gather between proceedings. This generous space was intentionally designed to encourage conversation and informal legal discussions.
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