Beaune, located about 40 km south of Dijon, is considered the center of Burgundy’s wine trade.
The Hôtel-Dieu or Hospices de Beaune is the main historical architecture of the city of Beaune. It is a unique palace of its kind in late-Gothic style perfectly preserved.
Hôtel-Dieu is the name given in France since the seventh century to all the welfare structures located near the Cathedrals and placed under the bishop.
The Hospices de Beaune was built in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, Chancellor of Burgundy and his wife.
Its sole purpose was to provide medical care to the poorest people in the city.
At that time, in fact, France was fighting hard against the plague and the couple, in order to save the population and earn a place in paradise, decided to build this hospice.
Classified as a historic monument since 1862, the Hotel Dieu has never changed in its purpose: charity and care have always been the two concepts behind this structure.
In 1971 the Hotel Dieu was decommissioned in favor of a more modern structure.
Inside the Hotel Dieu, you will find the Cour d’Honneur, a central courtyard flanked by beautifully restored buildings.
Topped by a painted tile roof, it is the symbol of Beaune.
The Hall of the Guards, the Chapel of the Poor, and the Great Hall of the Infirm are some of the main rooms to visit.
Inside you will also find a collection of paintings, furnishings and historical objects that tell the history and heritage of the hospital.
