Palace Square

As you cross Palace Square, you’re sure to notice some strange glowing balls, as if large drops of water had fallen from the sky and froze upon hitting the ground. It’s a unique fountain, to say the least, and one that will appeal to your imagination. In any case, it offers you the chance to take a striking photograph of Porte Cailhau. The surrounding Palace Square is a charming, discreet pedestrian square lined with cafés terraces and restaurants. It takes its name from the former Ombrière Palace, built in the Middle Ages for the Dukes of Aquitaine that no longer exists. After the crown became part of France, the Bordeaux parliament moved here. In 1575, the Parliament caused a big stir when a ship full of slaves docked in Bordeaux. The slaves were immediately freed, and the ship was sent back on the orders of the Parliament, which declared, and I quote: “France, mother of freedom, does not allow slaves!” Unfortunately, 5 years later, slavery was made legal on French soil, and the very same Parliament found itself settling disputes over slave ownership. The Palace was also used as a prison, but after being destroyed by several fires , it was finally demolished in 1800, opening up the pretty square you see today.