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Monument · Bordéus, Nova Aquitânia
Grosse Cloche
Former gate of the medieval wall and bell tower of the old town hall, with a bell of almost 8 tons that rings only on special dates.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Grosse Cloche
The Grosse Cloche (the big bell) is the nickname of one of the gates of the medieval wall of Bordéus, which also served as the bell tower for the old town hall. It is also called Porte Saint-Éloi, after the church beside it, and Porte Saint-James, because it stood on the route of pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela.
The current building dates from the 15th century, with two round towers linked by an arch. At the top sits the bell Armande-Louise, cast in 1775, weighing 7,750 kg. It rings only a few times a year: on January 1, May 1, May 8, July 14, August 28 and November 11 at 11:00, and on the first Sunday of every month at noon. Above the bell there is a clock and, on the very top, a weather vane in the shape of a lion.
The gate also served as a prison: youths who broke the curfew were locked in the interior cells. Today the interior can be seen on a guided tour that passes through the old cells.
The Grosse Cloche is on rue Saint-James, near rue Sainte-Catherine and the Saint-Michel district, and is one of the symbols that appear on the city’s coat of arms.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 10 minutes to see it from the outside; the guided interior visit takes around 45 minutes.
Best time
During the day to see the façade details, or at night with the lighting. To hear the bell, go on the first Sunday of the month at noon.
How to get there
On foot from the Cathédrale Saint-André (about 10 minutes) or from Place de la Bourse. Tram A stops at Sainte-Catherine station, a few blocks away.
Tip
The interior visit is guided, in French, with limited places: book at the Bordéus tourist office. Combine it with the Basilique Saint-Michel, a 10-minute walk away.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grosse Cloche
Can you enter the Grosse Cloche?
Yes, by guided tour with reservation through the Bordéus tourist office. The visit includes the old prison cells. Check dates and language before you go.
When does the bell ring?
On commemorative dates: January 1, May 1 and 8, July 14, August 28 and November 11 at 11:00, and on the first Sunday of each month at noon.
Why is it also called Porte Saint-James?
Saint-James is Santiago in Gascon and in Old English. The gate was on the route used by pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela.