Église Notre-Dame, Bordeaux

Church in Bordeaux

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Gzen92

The Église Notre-Dame in Bordeaux is one of the city’s finest examples of Baroque religious architecture. Built between 1684 and 1707 by the Dominican order, it was originally known as the Church of Saint-Dominic before adopting its current name. Its construction was part of the Catholic Counter-Reformation, which sought to reaffirm the grandeur and presence of the Church through imposing and richly decorated buildings. The church’s imposing façade, with its ornate pilasters and sculpted pediment, faces Place du Chapelet and lends a distinctive historical character to this quiet corner of the city center.

Inside, the church is notable for its harmonious proportions, warm stone interior, and intricate altarpieces. The carved wooden casing of its organ, dating from the 18th century, is a work of art in itself and has been classified as a historic object since 1971. Despite its long history, Notre-Dame has been exceptionally well preserved, thanks in part to careful restoration work undertaken in 1982. Its calm, reverent atmosphere makes it a popular site for concerts and recitals, taking full advantage of its exceptional acoustics. The church is also used by Bordeaux’s parish community and remains an active place of worship.

Église Notre-Dame holds a special place in the cultural life of Bordeaux. Its baroque style is relatively rare in the region, making it stand out among the city’s more prevalent Gothic and classical architecture. Over the years, the church has also become a popular location for filmmakers, who are drawn to its atmospheric façade and well-preserved forecourt. Whether you visit for a quiet moment of reflection, a concert, or an architectural stroll, this church is a testament to the enduring presence of faith and art in the city’s historic heart.

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

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!