Palais des Ducs
The Palace of Burgundian Dukes is situated in the centre of Dijon city.
The construction was a statement to display the power and might of the Burgundy dukes. Remember that Burgundy was not part of the French kingdom, and for many years, it was much more extensive.
The Burgundy dukes left the city of Beaune to install their power in the more prominent city of Dijon.
The first buildings in Dijon were constructed in 1365 on the grounds of a once-Gallo-Roman fortress.
As time passed, buildings and offices were added chaotically, resulting in management and organisation problems. The first steps in regaining control came with the construction of a general assembly hall under the direction of the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart. In the 18th century, much renovation and construction was under the responsibility of Jaques Gabriel.
The old kitchens, which provided the dukes with a huge quantity of meals, were demolished, and the principal stones were used to build the theatre of Dijon.
As the power of the Burgundy state rose and spread, the palace became handsomely decorated and flamboyant.
The palace is now the city hall, with the mayor's office and other administrative offices. As a city hall, many weddings are celebrated here.;
The tall tower of Philippe le Bon is open for visits and offers an impressive panoramic view of the city.
The Museum of Art is attached to the main buildings, and very close by are the Cathedral de Notre Dame, the Church of Saint Michael, and the old "Corn Exchange."
Not all of the Palace can be visited, and during important events, the gates will be closed to the public for formal parades, visits and events.
The guided tour is interesting with an English-speaking guide. If you do not mind steps, please climb up the top of the "Tour de Philippe le Bon." You'll be given an impressive skyscraper view of Dijon city, with the plains of the Saone River and hills of the vineyards.
In front of the palace is the "Place de la Liberation," which has recently been redesigned into a beautiful pedestrian zone with stone paving and waterfalls. Surrounding the "place" are cafés and restaurants with terraces, perfect for a city centre relaxation.
