Hospices of Beaune
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
The Hospices of Beaune, also known as Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune, is a remarkable Gothic hospital founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, chancellor to the Dukes of Burgundy, and his wife Guigone de Salins. It features one of Europe's best-preserved Renaissance buildings, famous for its vibrant glazed tile roof in the traditional Burgundian style. Originally established as a charitable hospital to care for the poor and sick, it operated continuously until the 20th century and now functions as a museum of medical history. The Hospices also possess a prestigious vineyard estate, whose wines are auctioned annually to fund the institution. The site houses notable artworks, including the polyptych "The Last Judgment" by Rogier van der Weyden. Its architectural elegance and historical significance make it the most visited monument in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. Located in Beaune, a town famed as the wine capital of Burgundy, the Hospices stand near other historic landmarks such as the collegiate church of Notre-Dame and the ducal palace. The Hospices represent a unique blend of medieval charity, Renaissance art, and Burgundy's viticultural heritage, attracting around 400,000 visitors annually.
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Tipp: Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance through the official website, especially during the popular charity wine auction period. The best time to visit is spring to early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and special events such as guided tours and heritage escape games are offered. Discounts may be available for cultural passes or groups. The Hospices are accessible via Beaune's train station, served by high-speed TGV connections through Dijon or Lyon.
Interessante Fakten
- •The Hospices of Beaune hosts France's most famous charity wine auction, which funds the hospital's operations.
- •Its colorful glazed tile roof is a quintessential example of Burgundian Renaissance architecture.
- •The polyptych "The Last Judgment" by Rogier van der Weyden, a masterpiece of Early Netherlandish painting, is displayed here.
- •It is the most visited monument in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, surpassing other historic sites like the Citadel of Besançon.
- •The Hospices were founded by Nicolas Rolin, chancellor to the Duke of Burgundy, and his wife Guigone de Salins in 1443 as a hospital for the poor.
Geschichte
Founded in 1443 at the end of the Hundred Years' War by Nicolas Rolin and Guigone de Salins, the Hospices of Beaune was established as a charitable hospital independent of religious orders.
Construction began with the large hall completed around 1450, and the chapel and cemetery were consecrated in 1451.
The institution served the indigent, elderly, and sick for centuries, expanding with additions such as the Saint-Hugues ward in 1645 and the Saint-Joseph ward in 1830.
The Hospices' renowned wine estate was historically sold at auction to fund its operations.
The building has been protected as a historic monument since 1862 and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage listing for the Burgundy vineyards in 2015.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
The Great Hallc.1450
The grand hall completed around 1450 served as the main ward for patients, showcasing the flamboyant Gothic architecture and the iconic polychrome tiled roof visible from the courtyard.
The Chapel1451
Consecrated in 1451, the chapel is dedicated to God and the Virgin Mary, featuring stained glass and housing the famous polyptych "The Last Judgment" by Rogier van der Weyden, a highlight of the museum.
The Vineyard Estate
The Hospices own a prestigious vineyard whose annual wine auction is a major event in Burgundy, supporting the hospital's funding and maintaining centuries-old viticultural traditions.
Saint-Hugues Ward1645
Opened in 1645, this ward was reserved for male patients by royal decree and represents the expansion of the hospital's facilities in the 17th century.
Kontakt
Telefon: 03 80 24 47 00
