Grosse Cloche

A significant eighteenth-century monument that highlights the medieval heritage of the city. This grand gate once served as a bell tower and a defensive structure, featuring a massive bronze bell that rings on special occasions. It is a well-maintained landmark that offers a clear look into historical urban design and remains a popular spot for photography.

Behold the majestic Grosse Cloche, a historic gem of Bordeaux, France! Originally part of the city’s medieval fortifications in the 13th century, this stunning tower once guarded the gates with pride, its sturdy stone walls standing as a symbol of strength and resilience. Over the centuries, it evolved into a beloved landmark, its grand clock and bell ringing out to mark time and celebrate the spirit of the community. Today, the Grosse Cloche thrives as a vibrant centerpiece of Bordeaux’s old town, drawing visitors from around the world with its timeless charm. Surrounded by bustling streets and lively crowds, it stands tall under the bright July sky, inspiring all who pass by to embrace history, unity, and the endless possibilities of the present!

Such a lovely surprise in the middle of Bordeaux! The Grosse Cloche is a beautiful old bell tower that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. You can’t go inside most of the time, but even just seeing it from the street is magical. It’s not a big attraction — more of a “wow, look at that!” moment during a walk through the old town. Totally worth stopping for a photo and soaking up the history. There are cute little cafés around too, so it’s a great place for a coffee break.

This is a neat bell tower to see, especially on the first Sunday of each month. That’s when they actually ring it at noon. There are neat book stores & eateries down the street from the bell. We sat outside and had breakfast with a perfect view of it. Also, about a block down Victor Hugo Rue there is a Falling Car poking out of a parking garage that’s fun to find and see!

What a wonderful gate! The whole street leading to it is very very pretty

A beautiful bell tower and gate from the old city wall of Bordeaux. The bell is seldom used now but the tower and the gate remain. A great place to visit.

It was a lovely medieval style clock and was very central location in the old town of Bordeaux. I love history and it was nice to see history in person. I would consider it a must to at least see the clock in a visit to Bordeaux, France.

This is a imposing bell tower located along Rue St. James in Bordeaux. Built in the 15th-century and originally an entrance into the city and part of the medieval wall around Bordeaux, the tower previously served as a dungeon and was given its present 7 tonne clock in 1775. Worth a look-see if passing through this area.

There's no mistaking it, and as I first arrived in Bordeaux, i found myself saying, C'est une grosse cloche! It's huge and it's an important symbol of Bordeaux, built in the 15th century. At the time, it was rung to signify the beginning of the grape harvest, but also to warn of fires and for special holidays. It's a gorgeous landmark and a remarkable slice of history. There are short tours available.