About
Rohan Palace stands on Place Pey Berland in the centre of Bordeaux, in the New Aquitaine region of south-western France. Its address is simply Place Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux, so it is easy to reach on foot once you are in the historic heart of the city.
A palace with a double life
Built in the 18th century, the palace was once the residence of Bordeaux's archbishops. Today it serves as the city hall, so the building keeps its role at the centre of civic life while remaining a fine piece of architecture. Visitors come to admire its neoclassical design, with elegant facades that reflect the grandeur of the city's golden age.
What to expect on a visit
The palace is best approached as a stop in a walk through the old town rather than a destination in itself. Plan to take time looking at the facades from the square, and allow a little longer if you want to see the gardens, which are part of the setting and add to the sense of space around the building.
- Architecture: neoclassical facades from the 18th century
- Gardens: a green setting around the palace
- Setting: Place Pey Berland, in central Bordeaux
Because the building still functions as the city hall, it is worth bearing in mind that it is a working public building. Check locally before you go if you hope to go inside, as access may depend on the day and on official business.
Around the palace
Rohan Palace sits in a part of Bordeaux where the streets, squares and historic buildings invite slow exploring. It makes a natural pairing with a walk through the surrounding old town, and it suits a visitor who enjoys seeing how a historic residence has been given a public role in the life of a modern city.