Tour Pey Berland (Pey Berland Tower), Bordeaux

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Tour Pey Berland (Pey Berland Tower), Bordeaux

Tour Pey Berland (Pey Berland Tower), Bordeaux

Perched gracefully beside the Saint-André Cathedral, the Pey-Berland Tower stands as a testament to 15th-century ambition and architectural ingenuity. Commissioned by Archbishop Pey Berland between 1440 and 1500, this Gothic bell tower was constructed independently of the cathedral to safeguard its delicate structure from the vibrations of the bells. Rising to a height of 66 meters, the tower was designed to house the cathedral's bells, which were too heavy for the existing structure.

The tower's history is as layered as its stonework. After its completion, it served various purposes, including housing and even a lead factory during the French Revolution. It wasn't until 1851 that the tower was restored to its original purpose, housing bells once again.

Climbing the 233 steps to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of Bordeaux. From this vantage point, one can appreciate the city's layout, the meandering Garonne River, and the architectural harmony of its historic buildings. The tower's golden statue of the Virgin and Child, installed in 1863, watches over the city, symbolizing both faith and resilience.

For those seeking a blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking views, the Pey-Berland Tower offers a unique experience in Bordeaux. It’s a climb worth every step.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bordeaux. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911: 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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Tour Pey Berland (Pey Berland Tower) on Map

Sight Name: Tour Pey Berland (Pey Berland Tower)
Sight Location: Bordeaux, France (See walking tours in Bordeaux)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Bordeaux, France

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