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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The town hall of Saint-Mihiel is a composite monument, resulting from two major periods of construction: the sixteenth century for its posterior part, and the last quarter of the eighteenth century for its main facade. The building, made of cut stone, has undergone notable modifications, such as replacing flat slate tiles with mechanical tiles, while the campanile and its lantern retain slate cover. This architectural mix reflects the administrative and symbolic needs of the city throughout the centuries.

The oldest part, dating from the 16th century, was partially preserved, while significant additions were made in the 18th century. In 1714 the master masons Jean Cimard and Claude Ravot built the chamber of the council of officers of the provost. In 1731 François Ravot, probably related, erected the chambers of the registry of the bailiff, followed in 1735 by the layout of a chapel in the large hall of the palace. These changes illustrate the adaptation of the building to the judicial and municipal functions of the time.

In the mid-18th century, the state of the city hall's advanced deterioration required urgent intervention. Despite the warnings of the intendant la Galaizière in 1768, the works did not begin until 1776-1777, according to plans modified by the sub-engineer Malbert and executed by the mason Jean-Baptiste Bonnet and the carpenters Jacques and François Jolliot. The final cost, exceeding £21,545, was the subject of litigation until 1784. The sculptures of the window keys, attributed to Louis Mény, added an artistic touch to this renovation.

The building, registered with the Historical Monuments in 1926 for its facades on street, lost its municipal function in 1978 when it was transferred to the former Abbey. Today, it houses associative activities, perpetuating its central role in local life. Its history, marked by reconstructions and adaptations, reflects the political and social dynamics of Saint-Mihiel, a Lorrain city with a rich and contrasting heritage.

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