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Situated on the fringe of a public park, in proximity to Place des Martyrs de la Resistance, stands the Basilique Saint-Seurin. Despite its address evoking France's contemporary history, this church stands as one of the oldest structures within the city. Over the course of centuries, it has been expanded and refurbished, with its crypt tracing back to the 6th century, nearly to the origins of Christianity. Its initial construction took place in the era succeeding the Roman Empire, during a time when Christian factions vied for authority over France. Among these factions, the Merovingians, who believed in their direct lineage to Jesus Christ, established dominion over a significant portion of Western France, including Bordeaux. The ancient crypt harbors the marble tombs of numerous Merovingian figures.

Designated as a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, the Basilique Saint-Seurin stands as one of Bordeaux's most historically significant edifices. Rooted in the Romanesque style, it has been enriched with various Gothic elements over time. Within its nave, one can find chapels originating from the 11th and 14th centuries. As the 15th century unfolded, the church's interior saw the incorporation of extensive Gothic embellishments, encompassing sculptures and keystones. Both the church and its crypt welcome visitors without any admission fee.

Why You Should Visit:
The architecture is a treat to explore with the Romanesque intact.
The stained-glass windows are spectacular, largely 19th century.
The crypt is a surprise with exceptional 6th-century sarcophagi & original chapels.

Tip:
Outside there is a very interesting archaeological site to explore.

The 脡glise Notre-Dame stands as an exemplar of Gothic architecture from the 17th century. Situated on Rue Mably within the northern quadrant of the city center, this esteemed edifice has become one of the most renowned structures in the city. Notably, its fa莽ade and nomenclature evoke strong parallels with the famed Notre Dame church situated at the heart of Paris. Crafted by the skilled hands of Pierre Duplessy, a distinguished architect and urban designer of the late 17th century, this church has garnered the distinction of being a designated historical treasure.

Saint Dominic, the patron saint of the church, is immortalized through a carved figure on the elaborate frontage of the structure, depicted in the act of receiving a rosary from the Virgin Mary. The genesis of the church dates back to the displacement of Dominican Catholics from their convent in 1678, orchestrated to accommodate King Louis XIV's expansion of his palace. Amid a contention with neighboring structures, while searching for unoccupied land within an expanding city, the church was compelled to orient its place of worship towards the east, deviating from the customary westward alignment.

Within the 脡glise Notre-Dame's interior, one encounters an opulent display of Gothic-style ornamentation. This church maintains a regular schedule of masses, and whether one visits during any hour of the day, they will observe local residents and tourists alike, kneeling in prayer within an environment still celebrated for its serenity, despite the consistent influx of tourists.

Why You Should Visit:
The 19th-century paintings on the walls inside are interesting, the large organ and stained glass are quite impressive, but it is the fa莽ade, facing into a small, quiet square, that is the real star.

Tip:
Try to visit during the start of service 鈥� no one bothers you and you can stand at the side where the ancient baptismal fountain and chapels are.
Next door is the Cour Mably which used to be the cloister for Notre Dame and is now a venue for temporary exhibitions but still worth a look, partly in its own right but also because you get a good view of the church tower from within the cloister.

Situated in the heart of Old Bordeaux, the Church of Saint Peter (脡glise Saint-Pierre) stands as a Medieval architectural gem. Much like other French churches constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries, the Saint-Pierre church boasts distinctive flamboyant Gothic design elements that capture attention. Notably, an intriguing feature is the asymmetrical single square bell tower on the left side as you approach, lending the structure a charmingly off-kilter appearance.

Within the church's interior, a fusion of architectural marvels spanning different eras creates a captivating atmosphere. Adjacent to an intricate Gothic portal stands a luminous white pieta from the 17th century, casting its radiance upon the inner walls of the church.

Enveloping the church is the elegant Place Saint-Pierre, a picturesque square that, in tandem with the church, constitutes the vibrant heart of the historic district of Bordeaux. This district, bearing the name of Saint Peter, offers a window into antiquity. Despite enduring significant destruction during the 18th century, the medieval area has been artfully reconstructed.

The narrow lanes that now occupy the medieval district maintain a timeless allure, each flanked by meticulously preserved townhouses. A curious sight adorns many of these facades 鈥� the enigmatic visages known as 'mascarons.' These intricately crafted sculptures served as emblems of affluence for the homeowners, adding to the district's character.

Why You Should Visit:
Undeniably pretty with some unusual adornments externally. Also, as many have observed, it's very peaceful.
Sits in a shady, tranquil, small square that makes you feel you're in the middle of a small town rather than a busy city.

The Cathedral of Saint Andrew is a symbol of Bordeaux's rich history and architectural grandeur. Situated on Pey-Berland Square, this Gothic masterpiece has been a central figure in the city's spiritual and cultural life for centuries.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1096 under the auspices of Pope Urban II, with the majority of the structure completed during the 14th and 15th centuries. Notably, the cathedral's Royal Gate, dating to the early 13th century, exemplifies the intricate design characteristic of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral's two towers, soaring to 81 meters, dominate the Bordeaux skyline, offering panoramic views of the city and the Garonne River.

Throughout its history, the cathedral has witnessed significant events, including the 1137 marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to King Louis VII of France. This union, though short-lived, had profound implications for European history. Additionally, in 1615, the cathedral hosted the wedding of Anne of Austria and Louis XIII, further cementing its status as a site of royal significance.

The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with a nave measuring 124 meters in length and 29 meters in height. Visitors can admire the intricate stained glass windows, which, despite suffering damage during the French Revolution, still retain their historical charm. The grand organ, a masterpiece of French craftsmanship, adds to the cathedral's acoustic allure.

Adjacent to the cathedral stands the Pey-Berland Tower, a separate bell tower constructed between 1440 and 1500. This tower, named after Archbishop Pey Berland, offers visitors the opportunity to ascend its 233 steps for a breathtaking view of Bordeaux.

If you're drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or spiritual ambiance, you鈥檒l love the place. The Cathedral of Saint Andrew offers a profound experience that encapsulates the essence of Bordeaux.

Situated on Place Canteloup, a historic square adjacent to the Pont de Pierre bridge, stands the Basilica of Saint-Michel, a Catholic edifice of significance. Erected during the turn of the 15th century, this architectural marvel embodies the Gothic Flamboyant style, showcasing an extraordinary and distinctive design. Its form encompasses a cruciform layout for the main church structure, complemented by a freestanding bell tower.

A true testament to artistic ingenuity, the tower ascends with grace, culminating in an intricately adorned spire that tapers skyward. Remarkably, this tower reaches a height of 114 meters and came into existence subsequent to the construction of the main church, likely within the 15th century. As a result, the Basilica of Saint-Michel claims the coveted title of the tallest structure in the city, proudly holding the position of the second tallest church in the entirety of France.

The tower's commanding elevation renders it visible from various vantage points across Bordeaux, a city characterized by its flat terrain and scarcity of lofty constructions. Regardless of your whereabouts within the city, a pilgrimage toward this iconic landmark proves worthwhile, as the church interior shelters an array of captivating artifacts. Notably, the church's pulpit showcases a vivid depiction of Saint Michael's triumphant defeat of a menacing dragon, while the central stained glass masterpiece boasts the creative touch of Couturat.

Beneath the hallowed grounds of the church rests an ancient cemetery and catacombs, relics hailing from Bordeaux's Roman heritage. These hidden treasures lay dormant until their discovery in 1881, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's bygone era.

Why You Should Visit:
A gothic extravaganza on the outside, standing clear in the square. Easy to walk around and view from all angles.
Inside is typical except for the marvelous 20th-century windows, some of the best modern stained-glass in Europe.
One of the chapels is given over to information both on the glass in the basilica and on the 'modern masters'.

Tip:
Sit outside by night in one of the many coffee/wine bars in the square and enjoy the view!