The Bordeaux Submarine Base (La Base Sous-Marine) is one of five German Submarine Bases built on the Atlantic Coast that housed Axis Submarine Fleets during the Second World War. Today, this striking hulk of concrete is dedicated to cultural and contemporary creation hosting many art exhibitions and musical events per year. 

The construction of the base was controlled by the occupying German forces, with work starting in 1941 and the completion of the structure being carried out in 1943. The base was bombed by the British on several occasions, especially in 1940 and 1941, but no significant damage was suffered, except for the sinking of a barracks ship. The submarine pens have proved to be infeasible to demolish due to their massive reinforced construction, which had been designed to withstand aerial bombardment.

From U-boats to Jazz concerts, the Base sous-marine is an extraordinary venue that bridges Bordeaux’s unforgettable past and modern cultural endeavors.

NEARBY SIGHTSEEING
La Cité du Vin
Église St. Louis Chartrons
Palais Gallien
Musée du Vin & Négoce

NEARBY RECOMMENDATIONS
Le Verre Ô Vin
Molly Malone’s
Le Boucher
La Toque Cuivrée – Chartrons

The Base itself is open from March until December yearly and is only open during temporary exhibitions (always check the program).

The best way of getting there is via the tram station La Cité du vin and a V3 bicycle to the station ‘Lucien Faure’ or the 9 & 32 buses to stop ‘Latule liane’.

NEARBY SIGHTSEEING
La Cité du Vin
Palais Gallien
Musée du Vin & Négoce

NEARBY RECOMMENDATIONS
Le Verre Ô Vin
Chez l’Daron
Molly Malone’s
Le Boucher
La Toque Cuivrée – Chartrons