Grosse Cloche (Big Bell), Bordeaux

Grosse Cloche (Big Bell), Bordeaux (must see)

The Big Bell stands proudly in the heart of Bordeaux as a symbol of the city鈥檚 rich medieval heritage. This iconic belfry鈥攐ne of the oldest in France鈥攚as originally part of the Saint-脡loi gate, a key entrance to the city during the 13th century. Over time, it evolved into both a belfry and a town hall, serving as a civic and defensive monument.

The structure is a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, featuring two octagonal towers connected by a central archway. Above the arch, the city's coat of arms is prominently displayed, symbolizing Bordeaux's enduring legacy. The bell itself, cast in 1775 and weighing 7,800 kilograms, is a striking feature. It rings six times a year, including on major public holidays and the first Sunday of each month at noon.

Visitors to the Big Bell can explore its rich history through guided tours, which offer insights into its architectural significance and the role it played in Bordeaux's past. Climbing the narrow, winding staircase rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city, providing a unique perspective of Bordeaux's landscape.

For those interested in the city's history, architecture, and culture, La Grosse Cloche is a must-see landmark that encapsulates the spirit of Bordeaux. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the city's resilience and its ability to preserve its heritage while embracing the future.

The surrounding streets add to the charm, lined with caf茅s, boutique shops, and picturesque corners perfect for photography. A morning visit captures the soft light on the stone fa莽ade, while afternoons allow for people-watching and soaking in the lively atmosphere of Bordeaux鈥檚 historic heart.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bordeaux. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Grosse Cloche (Big Bell)
Sight Location: Bordeaux, France (See walking tours in Bordeaux)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Bordeaux, France

Create Your Own Walk in Bordeaux

Creating your own self-guided walk in Bordeaux is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Architectural Jewels Walking Tour

Napoleon Bonaparte referred to Bordeaux as "The Sleeping Beauty" upon seeing its classical architecture when visiting the city. In his turn, Honore de Balzac, the renowned French novelist, impressed by Bordeaux's timeless charm and elegance described it as "an extraordinary town".

Indeed, Bordeaux is one of Europe's most original architectural centers. More... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles

Bordeaux Food Tour

Widely acclaimed for its prestigious wines, Bordeaux is also a prominent gastronomic destination in France. The local cuisine reflects the advantages of being a port city on the Atlantic coastline (with its fish and shellfish galore) and a carnivore country.

Perhaps the best place to start your culinary adventure here is the bustling Capuchins Market (March茅 des Capucins), where you can savor... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles

Historical Churches Walking Tour

Once dubbed 鈥淭he Sleeping Beauty鈥� (La Belle au Bois Dormant), Bordeaux owes its nickname, in large part, to its impossibly beautiful religious architecture. Indeed, given the abundance of historical churches, cathedrals, and basilicas in this city, it's no wonder that a good half of Bordeaux is a UNESCO-listed Heritage Site. Let's delve into the significance of some of them.

The... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles

Bordeaux Introduction Walking Tour

Bordeaux鈥檚 story begins long before vineyards and grand squares 鈥� its earliest name, Burdigala, suggests a Celtic origin tied to rich soil and waterways. Over time, its location on the meandering Garonne shaped both its identity and destiny. As the river curves through the city, it forms a crescent: hence Bordeaux鈥檚 poetic nickname, Port of the Moon, a name used since the Middle Ages to... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles

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