The Monument aux Girondins stands at the end of Place des Quinconces in central Bordeaux, a short tram stop from the surrounding sights. Its 43-metre column is topped by a bronze figure of Liberty breaking free from chains, while the fountain below gathers bronze horses and human figures. The monument honours Girondins who died during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror. Walk around the base to see the sculptures from different angles, then continue across the square or towards the Garonne.
A memorial in Place des Quinconces
The Monument aux Girondins occupies the end of Place des Quinconces, a vast square in central Bordeaux. It commemorates members of the Girondin political faction who fell victim to the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. The monument was erected in the late 19th century.
Its central column rises 43 metres and carries a bronze statue of Liberty breaking free from her chains. At the base, a fountain and groups of bronze figures give the monument much of its detail. Take a slow circuit rather than viewing it only from the front: the horses and human figures can be seen from different sides.
The fountain and the square
The fountain brings together bronze horses and figures associated with the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. Its sculpted details are a reason to pause at the base, even when the water is not running. From the north side, look for the horses’ hooves and tails.
Place des Quinconces is one of Europe’s largest squares. Trees and rostral columns form part of the setting around the monument, and the open space makes it easy to take in the full height of the column. The square is also a practical place to begin a walk through central Bordeaux.
Planning a visit
The monument is outdoors and accessible throughout the day and night. After dark, lighting changes the view of the column and fountain. Tram stops sit beside the square, so you can make this a brief stop between other central sights or spend longer walking around the surrounding space.
For a closer look at the bronze work, approach from the north. If you are continuing on foot, the square puts you within reach of Bordeaux’s old town and the Garonne. There is no need to plan a separate visit around a timed entry.
FAQ
What does the Monument aux Girondins commemorate?
It honours Girondins, members of a political faction during the French Revolution who were killed during the Reign of Terror.
What should I look for at the monument?
Look up to see the bronze Liberty figure breaking free from chains, then walk around the fountain to view its horses and human figures.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow around 20 to 40 minutes to view the column and fountain and walk through the surrounding square.
Can you visit the Monument aux Girondins at night?
Yes. The outdoor monument is accessible at night and is illuminated.
