Kathedraal van Bordeaux, gezien vanaf de koorzijde c. 1875 - 1900

This photograph shows the Kathedraal van Bordeaux, viewed from the choir side, and was taken by the Neurdein Frères. During the time this photograph was taken, France was undergoing significant transformations. In the 19th century, architectural photography served not only as documentation but also as a tool for shaping cultural identity and national pride. The image captures the cathedral during a period of restoration, symbolized by the scaffolding. This restoration reflects a broader cultural trend of preserving and celebrating national heritage, particularly in the wake of the French Revolution and subsequent political upheavals. The photograph invites us to consider how historical structures embody collective memory and cultural values. How do we preserve our heritage, and whose stories are prioritized in these efforts? This image connects us to the ongoing dialogue between history, identity, and the built environment.