While the column itself is beautiful, it is the fountains on the sides which often get the most attention. The fountains are based around massive bronze sculptures. On the south side of the column stands “Le triomphe de la République” – “the triumph of the Republic”, and on the other side, “Le triomphe de la Concorde”- “the triumph of Agreements”.

The sea-horse drawn chariots symbolize peace and happiness while the men getting overthrown in front of the chariots symbolize lies and ignorance. The combination of the flowing water and sculptures full of life, gives an impression that the sea-horses are leaping out of the water towards you in a spectacular fashion. The two incredible fountains form a worthy addition to Bordeaux’s incredible cityscape.

The bronze statues were dismantled by German troops in search of metal during the Second World War. These statues were however found in 1944 in the French city of Angers. They were then brought back to Bordeaux and later reinstalled.

The Place des Quinconces, in Bordeaux, is one of the largest city squares in Europe (approximately 31 acres or 126,000 m²).