Tour Pey Berland is the separate Gothic bell tower beside Saint-André Cathedral, on Place Pey Berland in central Bordeaux. Built in the 15th century, it rises above the square with a gilded statue of Notre-Dame d’Aquitaine at its summit. Climb the tower’s narrow stairway to its terraces for views across the city, the cathedral and the Garonne. The tower is also known for its 11-ton tenor bell. Its steep, confined passages make the climb a better fit for visitors comfortable with stairs and tight spaces.
A bell tower apart from the cathedral
Tour Pey Berland stands beside Saint-André Cathedral on Place Pey Berland. It was built as the cathedral’s bell tower, but was kept separate from the church. Accounts of its history connect this design with concern that the bells’ vibrations could affect the cathedral’s structure.
Construction began in 1440 and continued into the 15th century. The tower’s Gothic design is visible from the square, where its position beside the cathedral makes the separation clear. The tower takes its name from Pey Berland, the archbishop associated with its construction.
The bells and the statue
The tower’s large tenor bell weighs 11 tons. The bells were not installed until the 19th century; accounts place the installation in 1851 or 1853, so the exact year is unclear. The size of the bell is one reason the tower is a notable stop for visitors interested in Bordeaux’s religious architecture.
A gilded statue of Notre-Dame d’Aquitaine crowns the tower. It was placed there in 1863. From the square, look up to see the statue above the Gothic stonework; from the upper levels, you can get a closer view.
Climbing to the terraces
The ascent involves about 229 steps, though counts vary slightly across descriptions. The stairway and passages are narrow, so the climb can feel confined. There is a point partway up where you can pause before continuing.
At the top, the terraces give you a view across Bordeaux, including the historic centre, Saint-André Cathedral and the Garonne. The climb is the main reason to go inside, while the exterior can be appreciated from Place Pey Berland without taking the stairs. The Hôtel de Ville tram stop is close to the square, and the tower is also within walking distance of several museums in the Pey-Berland area.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Tour Pey Berland?
It is on Place Pey Berland in central Bordeaux, beside Saint-André Cathedral. The Hôtel de Ville tram stop is nearby.
How many steps are there in Tour Pey Berland?
The climb is about 229 steps. The stairs and passages are narrow, and there is a place to pause partway up.
What can you see from the top of Tour Pey Berland?
The terraces look over Bordeaux, Saint-André Cathedral and the Garonne. The summit also has a close view of the gilded Notre-Dame d’Aquitaine statue.
Is admission free on the first Sunday of the month?
Admission is reported to be free on the first Sunday of each month.
