The bunker's roof is 5.5 meters thick, consisting of a layer of reinforced concrete followed by a 'bomb-proof' layer of concrete and steel beams.
During construction, 600,000 cubic meters of concrete were poured, much of it by forced laborers.
The four internal basins are filled with several meters of water, which provides a reflective surface for the projected digital artworks.
The site was virtually indestructible during the war, remaining largely intact even after significant bombing raids in the vicinity.
The digital projectors operate on a continuous loop, allowing for fluid transitions between rotating classical and contemporary exhibitions.
The Base sous-marine is a massive concrete bunker complex originally constructed by the German occupying forces during World War II to house U-boat fleets. Located in the Bacalan district of Bordeaux, the site now serves as the Bassins des Lumières, the world's largest digital art center. The structure consists of eleven interconnected submarine pens, occupying approximately 42,000 square meters. The massive reinforced concrete roof was built to withstand heavy Allied aerial bombardment. Today, the facility utilizes high-definition laser projectors to cast immersive art exhibitions onto the walls, water surfaces, and concrete pillars. Visitors explore the site via a series of elevated footbridges and walkways spanning the water-filled basins. The internal temperature remains cool throughout the year due to the thick concrete shell. The transition from a military fortification to a cultural space has preserved the raw, industrial aesthetic of the bunker.
The central footbridge walkway, offering a panoramic view of the entire projected installation reflected on the water.
Bring a light jacket as the interior temperature is significantly lower than the outside temperature, even in summer.
Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes as the walkway surfaces can be damp near the water.
Check the official website for current exhibition themes before arriving, as the digital content changes periodically.
Do not attempt to walk on the edges of the basins or lean over the water, as the concrete surfaces can be slippery.
Open daily throughout the year, including public holidays.
No flash photography is allowed to protect the immersive digital displays.
