Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Office of the Poor of Beauvais was created in 1629 by the Three Corps (municipality, bishop and chapter) to manage the assistance of the indigent and marginal, integrating the maladry of Saint-Lazarus. This act marked a turning point: the institution no longer limited itself to the infectious patients, but extended its role to welcoming the poor, while moving them away from the city. The ensemble settled in the St. Lawrence district, around pre-existing buildings such as the Hotel Saint-Just (14th century) and its chapel (16th century).

In the 18th century, the Office of the Poor experienced a major expansion with the construction of a large building on Rue Buzenval (1777–92) and a wood-paned building at the corner of the streets of 27-Jun and Gesvres. These additions reflected an increasing organization of public assistance. In the 19th century, new buildings took over the ancient tracks, although their quality of execution was considered poor. The ensemble was finally classified and listed as historical monuments in 1987.

The institution illustrates the evolution of social policies in Beauvais, moving from fragmented ecclesiastical and municipal management to centralized structure. The buildings, combining medieval heritage and architectures of the Enlightenment, bear witness to this transition. Their heritage protection underscores their role in the region's urban and charitable history.

Today, the Old Office of the Poor consists of several protected elements: the Saint-Just Hotel and its chapel (classified), the facades of the building Rue Buzenval with its interior staircase, and the wooden-paned building (registered). These remains materialize nearly five centuries of social history, from the reception of lepers to modern poverty management.

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