S
Aerial view of Saint-Marie-de-la-Bastide Church in Bordeaux

Sainte Marie De La Bastide

Bordeaux, France

Sainte-Marie De La Bastide Bordeaux: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Église Sainte-Marie de la Bastide is one of Bordeaux’s most compelling historical and architectural landmarks, situated in the lively La Bastide district on the right bank of the Garonne River. Designed by renowned architect Paul Abadie—famous for the Sacré-Cœur in Paris—the church is a vivid example of neo-medieval architecture and a symbol of the area’s transformation from industrial outskirts to a vibrant urban neighborhood. This guide provides an in-depth look at the church’s history, architectural features, visitor information, accessibility, nearby attractions, and essential travel tips for making the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

Historical Background

Origins and Urban Context

Sainte-Marie de la Bastide was built at a pivotal moment in Bordeaux’s history. In the 19th century, the right bank of the Garonne was undergoing rapid urbanization and demographic growth, transitioning from a marshy, industrial area into a thriving community (Bordeaux Tourism). The need for new places of worship and community gathering led to the commissioning of this church, reflecting both the spiritual and social aspirations of the era (Bordeaux.fr).

Architectural Vision and Construction

Paul Abadie, celebrated for his revivalist approach, was chosen to design the church in a neo-medieval style. Construction began in 1864, with challenging marshy soil conditions necessitating innovative engineering. The bell tower, for example, was built on piles to ensure stability. The church was consecrated in 1884, marking a new chapter for the La Bastide district (Bordeaux.fr; Lonely Planet).


Architectural Features

Sainte-Marie de la Bastide stands out for its neo-medieval design, featuring a bulbous stone dome and an elegant lantern—distinctive elements that echo Abadie’s later work on the Sacré-Cœur (Lonely Planet). The façade incorporates Romanesque and Gothic Revival motifs, while the spacious nave, exposed wooden framework, and luminous stained glass create a serene, uplifting interior (Notre-Dame de Boulogne).

The church’s orientation—aligned with Avenue Thiers rather than the traditional east—demonstrates thoughtful integration with Bordeaux’s urban fabric (Bordeaux.fr). The bell tower, isolated from the main structure and anchored into stable ground, is a technical triumph and a visual landmark visible across the Garonne.


Cultural Significance and Community Role

Sainte-Marie de la Bastide is more than an architectural gem. It is a living hub of community and culture, bridging the Bastide’s industrial past and contemporary vibrancy (Bordeaux Tourism). Besides regular religious services, the church hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and neighborhood gatherings, reinforcing its role as a center for cultural life.

Its monthly organ concerts—featuring a recently restored pipe organ—are particularly popular, drawing music lovers from across Bordeaux (Petit Futé). The church also collaborates with nearby institutions, such as the Jardin Botanique and Darwin Ecosystem, to promote local heritage and sustainability.


Visiting Sainte-Marie de la Bastide

Hours and Entry

  • Typical opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily (may vary on Sundays, holidays, and during events).
  • Admission: Free for all visitors; donations are welcome.
  • Guided tours: Available during heritage events and by prior arrangement (Bordeaux.fr).

Accessibility

The church is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms. Assistance for visitors with mobility needs can be arranged on request (Bordeaux.fr; Bordeaux Tourism).

Guided Tours & Special Events

Guided tours provide insights into the church’s architecture, history, and artistic treasures. Monthly organ concerts and other cultural events are regularly scheduled—check notice boards or the official website for updates.


Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions

  • Getting there: Take Tram A (La Bastide stop) or Tram D (Stalingrad/Jardin Botanique), or cross the Pont de Pierre on foot or by bike (Bordeaux Découvertes).
  • Parking: Limited street parking is available; public transport or cycling is recommended.
  • Nearby sites: Explore the Jardin Botanique, Parc aux Angéliques, Darwin Ecosystem, and Maison Cantonale (Petit Futé).
  • Dining: Enjoy riverfront cafés and bistros; local favorites include Le Café du Port and Les Voyageurs.

Practical Information

  • Address: 62 avenue Thiers, 33100 Bordeaux
  • Public transport: Tram lines A and D (nearest stops: La Bastide, Stalingrad, Jardin Botanique)
  • Visitor amenities: Wheelchair access, restrooms, multilingual brochures, and event information available on site
  • Photography: Permitted; avoid flash and respect ongoing services or concerts

Visitor Tips

  • Best times: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and optimal lighting.
  • Dress code: Modest attire recommended; shoulders and knees should be covered inside.
  • Combine your visit: Pair with a walk along the Garonne or a tour of the Bastide’s parks and gardens.
  • Accessibility: Facilities and trams are equipped for visitors with reduced mobility.
  • Weather: Bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes; Bordeaux’s climate is mild but can be rainy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Sainte-Marie de la Bastide?
A: Typically open 9:00 AM–6:00 PM daily; check official sources for updates.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry is free. Donations are appreciated.

Q: Is the church accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps and accessible facilities.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, during heritage events or by prior arrangement.

Q: What are the main nearby attractions?
A: Jardin Botanique, Parc aux Angéliques, Darwin Ecosystem, and Maison Cantonale.


Conclusion & Resources

Sainte-Marie de la Bastide is a must-visit for anyone interested in Bordeaux’s history, architecture, and evolving urban culture. Its unique design, community spirit, and accessible location make it ideal whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or casual traveler. For real-time information, event schedules, and travel planning, consult the following resources:

For more on Bordeaux’s historical sites, events, and visitor tips, explore:

Enhance your experience by downloading the Audiala app for guided tours, event updates, and personalized recommendations. Enjoy your journey through Bordeaux’s rich past and vibrant present!

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Bordeaux

Amphitheatre Of Bordeaux
Amphitheatre Of Bordeaux
Aquitaine Museum
Aquitaine Museum
Basilica Of Saint Severinus Of Bordeaux
Basilica Of Saint Severinus Of Bordeaux
Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux
Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux
Berges De La Garonne Tram Stop
Berges De La Garonne Tram Stop
Betasom
Betasom
Bordeaux, Bibliothèque Municipale
Bordeaux, Bibliothèque Municipale
Bordeaux Cathedral
Bordeaux Cathedral
Bordeaux-Saint-Jean Railway Station
Bordeaux-Saint-Jean Railway Station
|
  Capc Musée D'Art Contemporain De Bordeaux
| Capc Musée D'Art Contemporain De Bordeaux
Carle Vernet Tram Stop
Carle Vernet Tram Stop
Castle Trompette
Castle Trompette
Chapel Of The Holy Heart Of Mary Of Bordeaux
Chapel Of The Holy Heart Of Mary Of Bordeaux
Chartreuse Cemetery
Chartreuse Cemetery
Chartreuse De Mirande
Chartreuse De Mirande
Chartreuse Le Caoulet
Chartreuse Le Caoulet
Château Peixotto
Château Peixotto
Church Of The Holy Cross
Church Of The Holy Cross
Conservatoire De Bordeaux Jacques Thibaud
Conservatoire De Bordeaux Jacques Thibaud
Departmental Archives Of Gironde
Departmental Archives Of Gironde
Distillerie Sécrestat
Distillerie Sécrestat
École Du Service De Santé Des Armées De Bordeaux
École Du Service De Santé Des Armées De Bordeaux
Fort Du Hâ
Fort Du Hâ
Grand Théâtre De Bordeaux
Grand Théâtre De Bordeaux
Guignol Guérin
Guignol Guérin
Hôtel De Babylone
Hôtel De Babylone
Hôtel De Ville Tram Stop
Hôtel De Ville Tram Stop
Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez
Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez
Jardin Public
Jardin Public
La Cité Du Vin Tram Stop
La Cité Du Vin Tram Stop
La Faïencerie Mansion
La Faïencerie Mansion
Le Palais Gallien Hotel
Le Palais Gallien Hotel
Librairie Mollat
Librairie Mollat
Lycée Michel-Montaigne
Lycée Michel-Montaigne
Maison Acquart
Maison Acquart
Maison Couturier
Maison Couturier
Maison De Bourdieu De La Jalle
Maison De Bourdieu De La Jalle
Manufacture Des Tabacs
Manufacture Des Tabacs
|
  Miroir D'Eau
| Miroir D'Eau
Montaigne
Montaigne
Montesquieu
Montesquieu
Monument Aux Girondins
Monument Aux Girondins
Municipal Archives Of Bordeaux
Municipal Archives Of Bordeaux
|
  Musée D'Aquitaine Tram Stop
| Musée D'Aquitaine Tram Stop
Musée Des Beaux-Arts De Bordeaux
Musée Des Beaux-Arts De Bordeaux
Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce
Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce
|
  Muséum D'Histoire Naturelle De Bordeaux
| Muséum D'Histoire Naturelle De Bordeaux
Novitiate Jesuits Building, 5 Rue Du Noviciat
Novitiate Jesuits Building, 5 Rue Du Noviciat
Novitiate Jesuits Building, 7 Rue Du Noviciat
Novitiate Jesuits Building, 7 Rue Du Noviciat
Palais Rohan, Bordeaux
Palais Rohan, Bordeaux
Passerelle Eiffel
Passerelle Eiffel
Pavillon De Musique De Bordeaux
Pavillon De Musique De Bordeaux
Petit Hôtel Labottière (Bordeaux)
Petit Hôtel Labottière (Bordeaux)
Place Camille Jullian
Place Camille Jullian
Place De La Bourse
Place De La Bourse
Place Des Quinconces
Place Des Quinconces
Place Du Parlement
Place Du Parlement
|
  Pont D'Aquitaine
| Pont D'Aquitaine
Pont De Pierre
Pont De Pierre
Pont Jacques-Chaban-Delmas
Pont Jacques-Chaban-Delmas
Port Of The Moon
Port Of The Moon
Porte Cailhau
Porte Cailhau
|
  Porte D'Aquitaine
| Porte D'Aquitaine
Porte De Bourgogne
Porte De Bourgogne
Porte De Bourgogne Tram Stop
Porte De Bourgogne Tram Stop
Porte Dijeaux
Porte Dijeaux
Prefecture Building Of Gironde
Prefecture Building Of Gironde
Quinconces Tram Stop
Quinconces Tram Stop
Rue Sainte-Catherine
Rue Sainte-Catherine
Sainte-Marie De La Bastide
Sainte-Marie De La Bastide
Stade Bordeaux-Atlantique
Stade Bordeaux-Atlantique
Stade Chaban-Delmas
Stade Chaban-Delmas
Synagogue
Synagogue
Temple Des Chartrons
Temple Des Chartrons
Temple Du Hâ
Temple Du Hâ
The Big Bell Of Bordeaux
The Big Bell Of Bordeaux
|
  Théâtre De L'Alhambra
| Théâtre De L'Alhambra
Tour Du Greffe
Tour Du Greffe
Tour Pey-Berland
Tour Pey-Berland
University Of Bordeaux
University Of Bordeaux
Venus Of Laussel
Venus Of Laussel