The Water Mirror

Narcissus in the land of fine wines. For the past 20 years, it has been situated across from Place de la Bourse, along the banks of the Garonne. It is the largest reflecting pool in the world. This 21st-century fountain alternates between mirror effects and fog production. Enchantment created by fountain designer Jean-Max Llorca, the water mirror is the centerpiece of Bordeaux’s quays. On either side, bike paths and pedestrian walkways encourage gentle movement along the quays. A popular tourist attraction, other cities around the world, such as Quebec, are considering building a similar feature. Visitors can even tour the ingenious mechanism located beneath the square. Perfect for enthusiasts of pipes and H2O.

The water mirror in September ©A. RockStud/Wikipedia

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Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Eleanor of Aquitaine

"Too intelligent, too beautiful, too talented, too passionate. She embodies the Biblical Eve, the temptress of original sin."* Queen, traveler, mother, prisoner, regent, ambassador—Eleanor of Aquitaine is one of the most fascinating figures of the Middle Ages. In 1137, the 15-year-old duchess married the future Louis VII, thereby uniting Aquitaine with the Kingdom of France. From her troubadour grandfather, William X, "Eleanor inherited a love for the arts, which she brought to the French court. Singing, dancing, and literature served the ideals of fin’amor, courtly love."* Strategic, determined, and scandalous, she accompanied her husband on the Crusade. Defying conventions, yet mindful of her safety and capable of the most daring diplomatic calculations, she married Henry Plantagenet, the future King of England, in 1152. Her tomb now rests at the Abbey of Fontevraud, still adorned with flowers by anonymous hands. *Sources: C. Houer, "Le Monde Histoire."

Queen Eleanor, Frederick Sandys 1858/National Museum of Wales (public domain)

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The Bassins des Lumières

Prepare to be dazzled! In 2020, the former submarine base in Bordeaux was transformed into the largest digital art center in the world. The Bassins des Lumières offers a visual and auditory experience dedicated to the great artists of yesterday and today, from Vermeer to Van Gogh, from Mondrian to Hergé and his faithful Tintin. The high-quality digital exhibitions (video projections) blend seamlessly with the monumental architecture of the submarine base, reflecting in the water of the four immense basins measuring 12 meters high, 110 meters long, and 22 meters wide. This adds a new dimension to the immersive experience. Keep your eyes open, because it’s going to be grand; until 2025, you have an appointment with the Egypt of the Pharaohs.

The Bassins des Lumières © C. de la Motte Rouge

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Where to Learn French in Bordeaux ?

French Language Schools

Public and private centers for teaching French as a foreign language to young learners, students, and professionals.

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Teacher’s home tuition

Personalized welcome at the teacher’s home. Tailor-made training program and customized stay arrangements.

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Cultural stays

Language and cultural tourism : art of living, culture, gastronomy, economic discovery, heritage, nature, sports.

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Le Petit Guide FLE.
How to choose your school and prepare your stay

Destination France Guide

Prepare your stay and discover France
The FLE quality label

The quality label FLE, the Campus France Label, the Alliance Française Label
French Language Tests and diplomas

The French as a foreign language proficiency tests and diplomas
Choosing your school

Informations and advices to be considered before choosing your school