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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The chapel of the General Hospital of Laon is part of an architectural ensemble built from 1668 on the initiative of Caesar d'Estrées, bishop of Laon. This project aimed to create a facility for the poor, organised around a square courtyard. The chapel, the east wing and the north wing were raised between 1677 and 1687 by Jean Marest, visiting the city, using materials from the church of Thierret and the former Abbey Palace of Saint Vincent. The chapel was completed in 1679, as indicated by the date engraved on his pediment.

In 1749-1750, architect François Housset added an abundance attic (now school of nurses) vaulted dogives, rue des Frères. The courtyard was closed in 1849 with the completion of the west and south wings, designed by architect Van Cleemputte. In the 19th century, the hospital expanded further by acquiring three adjacent private hotels. During World War II, the site served as Commander under German occupation.

Ranked a historic monument in 1993, the ensemble now houses a retirement home and a training centre. The chapel, made of limestone with medium apparatus, is distinguished by its false arch in laminated cradle. The wings combine stone, stone and brick, reflecting architectural styles from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Three ramp stairs serve the north, east and west wings, reflecting the original functional organization.

The General Hospital illustrates Laon's prosperity in the 17th century, marked by the rise of brick and stone architecture. Founded to secure the poor, it became a place of care and training, symbolizing the evolution of charitable institutions. Reused materials (thierret stones, elements of Saint Vincent Abbey) also highlight the constructive practices of the time.

The protections for historical monuments cover the entire chapel, the facades and roofs of the buildings around the courtyard, as well as the staircases, walled rooms and gateways of the private hotels. The official address, 25 rue du 13-October, places the monument in the medieval area of Laon, between the streets of the Irish Scots and the Brothers.

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