A contemporary vision in a historic neighbourhood.
The Gambetta district, with its many museums around Saint André Cathedral and Bordeaux City Hall, offers a view of the shopping streets of downtown Bordeaux.
The Hotel Madame, is adjacent to the Porte de Dijeaux. Porte de Dijeaux was the entrance to the city since Roman times. It was rebuilt between 1748 and 1753. It was named Porte Dauphine under Louis XV in honour of the Dauphin of France, the future king Louis XVI. It leads to the Place Gambetta, the official centre of the town since the installation in the 19th century of a zero marker still visible at number 10 of the square.
Are you a history buff?
Take advantage of our guided tours, available in several languages to learn more about Bordeaux and its districts, from 20€ per person.
200m from the Hotel Madame, under the ancient panelling and chandeliers of the Hotel de Lalande, you will find the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design. Just outside the hotel, the Saint Andrée cathedral will be in front of you.
In 1096, Pope Urban II consecrated the first cathedral of Bordeaux. Designed on a Latin cross plan, the cathedral is a fine example of Southern Gothic.
Two royal weddings were celebrated: that of the future king of France Louis VII and Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1137, and that of Louis XIII and Anne of Austria in 1615.
Do you see two bell towers?
The 12th century bell tower of the cathedral was not big enough to support the bells, so a separate bell tower had to be built, which was done in 1440.
It was not until 1863 that a statue of Notre Dame d'Aquitaine was hoisted.
After the visits, let yourself be lulled by the softness of Bouffard Street and its many shops: antique shops, art galleries, decoration shops and music shops.
Its atmosphere is soft and inspiring. It is pleasant to stroll between a bookshop, a florist, a Persian carpet shop, an antique armoury, an interior design showroom inspired by trends from all over the world and a delicious chocolatier, whose speciality is succulent. In the evening, the street is quiet and returned to its inhabitants.
The concierge of the Hotel Madame is looking forward to welcoming you and distilling all our good addresses.
To be continued, our Gastronomic City Tour of the city.
Vue de la rue Bouffard
@madd-bordeaux - F.Griffon