You probably know (or not) this unmissable Bordeaux square that is Place du Parlement. But maybe you know less about a small secret almost everyone ignores.
A piece of Italy
The Place du Parlement sits right in the heart of the Saint-Pierre district of Bordeaux.
Although it seems less known than its neighbour (or less exposed geographically speaking) Place de la Bourse, it is a busy spot where you will find restaurants, bars, ice cream shops and boutiques…
At its centre stands a pretty rococo-style fountain, installed in 1865, designed by the Bordeaux architect Michel Louis Garros.
Place du Parlement is a lively spot, its style and paving blend perfectly with this group of grand 18th-century buildings. Formerly named Place du Marché Royal, then Place de la Liberté during the French Revolution, it was only in 1952 that it was listed as a Historic Monument.
The Late Roman Empire port of Bordeaux
If you pay attention, you will notice that this square is not perfectly flat. From north to south, it has a gentle but very real slope, because it was built on the slipways of the old Roman port of Bordeaux.
Yes, you heard right, in the place of this square (not the prettiest sentence) there used to be a port.
It is thought to have been a wine-trading port, as the grape seeds discovered during the construction of the Saint-Christoly block confirmed.
An impressive construction
About 60 metres wide, the body of water went from today's Place Saint-Pierre up to Saint-Christoly, passing through rue de la Devise and crossing rue Sainte-Catherine.
Reconstitution 3D 
Reconstitution 3D
On each side of the stream, ships were lined up along quays and slipways bordered by major warehouses.
I am sure you will never walk this square the same way again now.
