Hôtel de Ville, Beaune

Town Hall in Beaune

Beaune Hotel De Ville
CC BY-SA 2.0 / ~Pyb

The former Ursuline Convent, now Beaune's Hôtel de Ville, is one of the must-see places in Beaune for travellers interested in the city's layered religious and civic history. Founded by the Ursuline sisters in 1626, this complex evolved from a quiet teaching convent into a grand municipal building following the turbulence of the French Revolution. Today, its courtyards, historic wings, and sculpted facades stand as a testament to Beaune's ability to adapt its heritage to new purposes. It is often visited on walking tours of Beaune thanks to its central location and striking architecture.

Stepping into the space, visitors encounter a building marked by devotion, disaster, reinvention, and civic pride. Fires, renovations, and political upheavals have all shaped its appearance—from the demolition of its unstable bell tower in 1794 to major nineteenth-century redesigns that gave the facade its regal and military motifs. Sculptures by Louis Bonnet, a nineteenth-century sundial, and commemorative plaques highlight the building’s long association with community life, education, and public memory.

History and Significance of the Former Ursuline Convent

The Ursuline sisters of Autun began their mission in Beaune in 1626, purchasing the hôtels of Bernard de Montessus and Damas de Marcilly to transform into a convent and school for the daughters of notable families. Their church's foundation stone was laid in 1697, and the completed sanctuary featured a bell tower, statues, paintings, and fleur-de-lis—symbols still visible into the 1940s.

Everything changed with the French Revolution. Classified as National Property in 1790, the convent was purchased by the municipal administration in 1793. Though the buildings were structurally solid, they needed extensive renovations, and by 1810, major repairs costing over thirty thousand francs were identified. The chapel’s bell tower, posing a collapse risk, was demolished in early 1794.

Despite long-term survival uncertainties, the convent gradually took on new functions. The Ursulines briefly returned in 1802, but by 1813, the city was using parts of the building to generate revenue. After a large fire in June 1815, renovations reshaped the convent into the structure recognised today. The facade—completed by 1818—was embellished with symbols of power and victory, including Bonnet’s sculptures. The north wing was added in 1850, later hosting a village hall and dance hall.

By the late nineteenth century, the former chapel became home to the Museum of Fine Arts (1871–2001), before being converted into a reception hall inaugurated in 2007. Commemorative plaques, a relocated war monument, and a mural of historic inscriptions all contribute to its richly layered identity.

Things to See and Do in the Former Ursuline Convent

The building’s elegant facade is one of its standout features, decorated with nineteenth-century military and regal motifs, sculpted by Louis Bonnet after the post-fire renovations. The sundial incorporated into the facade is a charming detail that reflects the period’s interest in scientific and decorative elements.

Walking through the complex, visitors can trace how different eras reshaped its purpose—from sacred convent life to civic administration to cultural museum. The former chapel, now a reception hall, retains traces of its past despite changes. Plaques throughout the building commemorate events including the convent’s founding, the 1830 July Revolution, First World War triumphs, and even a Franco-German summit in 1993, reflecting its ongoing civic relevance.

Outside, the surrounding square highlights Beaune’s commitment to beautification, underscored by its 2006 European Grand Prix for flowering.

How to Get There

Beaune is conveniently reached from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, which offers broad European and long-haul connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Beaune on Booking.com.

The town hall sits a short walk from Beaune's railway station on the Dijon–Chalon-sur-Saône line, served by frequent regional trains. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Several public car parks lie around the historic centre, making the site easily reachable for visitors arriving by car. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Former Ursuline Convent

  • Best time to visit the Former Ursuline Convent: Late morning or early afternoon for good lighting on the facade.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free to view the exterior; interior access varies with municipal schedules.
  • Opening hours: Exterior accessible at all times; the reception hall follows town hall hours.
  • Official website: https://www.beaune.fr
  • How long to spend: Around 20–30 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Exterior and main entrance areas are accessible; some older interior spaces may have steps.
  • Facilities: Cafés and shops are nearby, along with public restrooms in the town centre.
  • Photography tip: Capture the facade from Maurice-Emmanuel Street for the best perspective.
  • Guided-tours: Occasionally included in municipal or heritage tours.
  • Nearby food options: Beaune’s central cafés and restaurants are just minutes away.

Where to Stay close to the Former Ursuline Convent

Beaune’s compact centre offers several excellent accommodation options. Hotel Athanor is a convenient and central choice. For a more refined stay, Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa Beaune offers elegant comfort near the town’s cultural sites. Another appealing option is Hôtel Belle Epoque, set in a restored Burgundy residence.

Is the Former Ursuline Convent Worth Visiting?

Yes — while it is not as famous as the Hospices, the former Ursuline Convent offers a fascinating insight into Beaune’s evolving identity. Its history weaves together religion, revolution, civic life, art, and architecture. For travellers exploring the town’s hidden layers, it is a rewarding and atmospheric stop.

FAQs for Visiting

Can you visit the interior?
Some rooms, such as the reception hall, are accessible during municipal opening hours; others are restricted.

Is the original convent still recognisable?
Much has changed, but key features—including parts of the layout and architectural details—remain visible.

Was the convent large?
Yes, it once included multiple wings, a chapel, courtyards, and educational spaces.

Are there guided visits?
Occasionally, especially during heritage events or official tours.

Is it suitable for families?
Yes, the site is quick to visit and centrally located.

Nearby Attractions to the Former Ursuline Convent

The Hôtel de Ville appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Beaune!

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Visiting Hôtel de Ville

Address: Hôtel de Ville de Beaune, Rue de l'Hôtel de ville, Beaune, France
Beaune: 1 km

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