Medieval Bordeaux was constrained behind walls meant to protect the city from its enemies. However, by the eighteenth century, the threat of invasion had receded, and the prosperity of commerce had arrived. King Louis XV wanted to lay out a royal square in Bordeaux to celebrate his glory, while local officials wanted to open the city to a brave new world. The man to satisfy all sides was Jacques Gabriel (1698-1782), the principal royal architect, and his son Ange Gabriel. They designed a large square (100x120 metres/328x394 feet) defined by neoclassical buildings on three sides. In the north stood the Palais de la Bourse (current Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Bordeaux), and in the south the Hotel des Fermes (now Interregional Directorate of Customs and Indirect Rights). The royal square was a magnificent sight to welcome travellers from the river and remind them of France’s wealth and elegance.