Église Notre-Dame, Bordeaux

Church in Bordeaux

Église Notre-Dame
Église Notre-Dame
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Gzen92

Tucked into a peaceful corner near Place du Chapelet, the Église Notre-Dame is one of the top sights in Bordeaux for travellers who appreciate elegant architecture and atmospheric interiors. Built between 1684 and 1707 by the Dominican order, the church stands out in a city better known for its Gothic spires and neoclassical boulevards. Its Baroque façade, intricate sculptural details, and warm stonework make it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Bordeaux, especially for those seeking a quieter, contemplative moment amid the bustle of the city.

Inside, the church reveals a beautifully preserved Baroque interior with harmonious proportions, detailed altarpieces, and the remarkable 18th-century organ casing-classified as a historic object since 1971. Whether you stop in for a concert, a guided visit, or simply to admire its artistry, the church offers a serene glimpse into Bordeaux’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

History and Significance of Église Notre-Dame

The Église Notre-Dame was built between 1684 and 1707 by the Dominican order during the Counter-Reformation, when the Catholic Church sought to reaffirm its influence through impressive and richly decorated sacred spaces. Originally dedicated to Saint Dominic, the church later took the name Notre-Dame.

Its Baroque façade is a striking feature in Bordeaux, with ornate pilasters, sculpted pediments, and decorative motifs that reflect the stylistic ambitions of the period. Over the centuries, the church has been carefully preserved, with a major restoration in 1982 ensuring the survival of its architectural and artistic treasures.

Notre-Dame has long held an important cultural role in the city, serving both as a vibrant parish church and a venue for concerts, thanks to its excellent acoustics.

Things to See and Do in Église Notre-Dame

Step inside to admire the elegant Baroque interior, where soft light filters across stone walls and intricate altarpieces. The 18th-century organ casing, carved with exceptional craftsmanship, is a highlight of the visit.

The church regularly hosts classical music performances and recitals, making it an ideal place to enjoy the acoustics of a historic sacred space. Filmmakers frequently choose Notre-Dame for its atmospheric exterior and forecourt, which add a cinematic touch to the surrounding neighbourhood.

How to Get There

Église Notre-Dame is located in central Bordeaux, just a short walk from Gambetta Square and tram lines B and D. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. Several public car parks lie nearby for those arriving by car, including parking around Place Gambetta. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Visitors travelling via Bordeaux Airport can take tram or shuttle connections into the city centre before reaching the church on foot. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Bordeaux on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting Église Notre-Dame

  • Best time to visit Église Notre-Dame: Afternoons are quieter and ideal for photography.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
  • Opening hours: Typically open daily; hours may vary depending on services.
  • Official website: bordeaux-tourisme.com
  • How long to spend: 20-40 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Step-free access may be limited; check ahead if needed.
  • Facilities: No on-site facilities; cafés and shops nearby.
  • Photography tip: Capture the façade from Place du Chapelet for the best angle.
  • Guided-tours: Offered seasonally through local tourism networks.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés, bakeries, and bistros around Rue Porte Dijeaux and Gambetta.

Where to Stay close to Église Notre-Dame

For travellers wishing to stay near the historic centre, Hôtel Konti by HappyCulture offers stylish comfort near Gambetta Square. The boutique Mama Shelter Bordeaux provides a modern, lively atmosphere within walking distance. Another excellent choice is Yndo Hôtel, a luxurious mansion-turned-hotel near the city’s cultural attractions.

Is Église Notre-Dame Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. With its rare Baroque architecture, peaceful ambience, and beautiful artistic details, Église Notre-Dame is one of the best places to visit in Bordeaux for lovers of history, architecture, and sacred spaces. Its cultural significance and excellent acoustics make it memorable whether you attend a concert or simply stop in for a quiet moment.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (61)

Notre Dame des Anges Bordeaux, at 208 Rue de Pessac, is an early 20th-century Franciscan-style church noted for its brightness and original decoration, especially a central baptistery created by artist Charbel Matta; run by a lively Jesuit parish, it offers quiet oratories for reflection and longer, meditative masses where congregants can gather around the altar for Eucharistic liturgy.

Arman
3 years ago
"Good"
Derouault Jean
4 years ago
"Early 20th-century church, Franciscan style. Very bright. Original decoration, particularly the baptistery in the center. Secluded oratory for quietreflection...."
Sylvain Morin
4 years ago
"A beautiful church and vibrant parish run by the Jesuit community of Bordeaux. This church boasts a magnificent baptistery designed by artist CharbelMatta. The "mass that takes its time" allows the faithful to meditate and share the Word. It also offers the faithful the opportunity to surround the altar where the Eucharistic liturgy allows them to commune with the Body and Blood of Christ...."

FAQs for Visiting Église Notre-Dame

Yes, it hosts regular services and community events.
Yes, the church frequently hosts classical music performances.
Generally yes, though restrictions may apply during services.
No, but its forecourt and surrounding streets are charming to explore.
The organ casing dates from the 18th century and is considered a historic object.

Nearby Attractions to Église Notre-Dame

The Église Notre-Dame appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bordeaux!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges de Bordeaux, Rue de Pessac, Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux: 2 km

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