CulturalInscribed 2007

Bordeaux, Port of the Moon

Bordeaux · Gironde · Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Located in southwestern France along the Garonne River, this urban ensemble represents an exceptional example of 18th-century architectural and urban planning development. The site encompasses the historic center of Bordeaux, characterized by its distinctive neoclassical facades, harmonious street layouts, and grand public squares that exemplify Enlightenment ideals. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, the Port of the Moon was recognized for demonstrating outstanding universal value through its architectural coherence and the successful integration of urban design principles across an extensive area. The site's name derives from the crescent shape formed by a bend in the Garonne River, which historically facilitated the city's development as a major maritime trading port. The visual character of Bordeaux is defined by its uniform architectural language, featuring pale stone buildings with mansard roofs and wrought-iron balconies that create a cohesive urban landscape. The inscription acknowledges the outstanding urban planning achievement that transformed Bordeaux into a model of 18th-century European urbanism.

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