Monument to the Girondins Bordeaux
With over two thousand years of history, monuments and relevant sites to see in Bordeaux are the order of the day. Everywhere you go, you can find a real architectural joy to enjoy, especially squares and monuments.
The Monument to the Girondins is a place worth visiting a thousand times. Even if you already know it, it is always fascinating. In addition, it is in the heart of the city, but, even so, here you breathe calm.
Monument to the Girondins and Quinconces Square
When we say that in Bordeaux there are many places full of history and tradition to enjoy, we are not exaggerating. Hundreds of squares, parks and buildings, many of them protected by UNESCO, make this city a true paradise for history lovers.
The Place des Quinconces is considered one of the largest squares in the world located in the middle of a city. If you have been wanting to know a little more about this place, we will tell you about its history.
For a clearer perception, we will talk on the one hand about the monument to the Girondins, and on the other hand about the square itself.
History of the Monument to the Girondins
First of all, let’s make it clear who were the Girondins. They were the deputies who came from the department of the Gironde. They were part of one of the most important fractions in the French Revolution. However, they were accused of conspiracy and 21 leaders of this group were guillotined in 1793.
As the centenary approached, the government of Bordeaux decided to erect a monument in honor of these leaders. The work began in 1894, although it was not inaugurated until 1902.
This monument is composed of a pillar 43 meters high, which is crowned by a statue of liberty, but breaking the chains. It is surrounded by a beautiful and impressive fountain that is decorated with different statues that have different representations. Together, they make up the Triumph of the Republic and the Triumph of Concord.
History of the Place des Quinconces
The Place des Quinconces, with more than 12 hectares of space, is considered the largest square in Europe located within a city.
It was built in the 19th century, on the site of the ancient fortress of the Royal Castle of Trompette. This, in turn, was erected after the culmination of the Hundred Years’ War in the fifteenth century. However, after a series of attacks, it was finally destroyed in the 19th century.
The name of this square is due to the tree-lined alleys in the surrounding area. In the past, in these could be seen several groups of five trees distributed along the road, i.e. in quincunx.
Here there are two 21 meter high columns that were erected in 1829. One symbolizes navigation and the other trade, the main sources of income of the city. In 1858 two white marble statues were added, representing Montaigne and Montesquieu.
During six months of the year, the square hosts a large part of its space for cultural and recreational activities for the city.
How to get to the monument to the Girondins of Bordeaux?
It is in the heart of the city, on the esplanade des Quinconces. This is where the streetcar and bus lines of Bordeaux converge.
Discover the monument to the Girondins of Bordeaux through a free tour.
To get to know and enjoy a new place, there is nothing better than meeting the locals. In Bordeaux, with us, you have the option of a free tour where they will be your guides. In Free Walking Tours we have tours adjusted to your language to tell you every single detail that this wonderful and charming place has. You will feel at home.
