Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The former Hôtel-Dieu de Laon, founded in the 12th century by the cathedral chapter around 1167, was originally located south of the cathedral square. This first establishment, organized on four levels (cave, ground floor semi-entered for travellers, floor dedicated to care), was quickly too small. The canons acquired a nearby house in 1209 to transfer it, but the work did not begin until 1273, after the purchase of the adjacent plots. The Hotel-Dieu played a central role in the medieval life of Laos, welcoming sick and pilgrims under the supervision of the doctors of the school of Laon.

In the 17th century, the building underwent major transformations to avoid its ruin. Between 1670 and 1677 major works were undertaken, including the construction of a new hall for the sick for women (1677), designed by the architect Innocent Bourgeois, and the renovation of the chapel (1683). The door to Aubry Square, decorated with a niche and realized by the master mason Jean Hottin, as well as the wing of the convent (1670-1677), are the only remains of this period still visible today. These developments reflect the evolution of hospital practices and the influence of classical architecture.

The Hôtel-Dieu was transferred in the 18th century to the former Saint Martin Abbey, releasing the premises for other purposes. The buildings, damaged during the First World War, were partially classified as historical monuments in 1928 (facades and roofs of 17th century buildings). The great hall of the sick, dating from the Middle Ages, was however destroyed in 1929 to give way to a covered market, designed by architect Abella. In 1970, a restoration by the architect Vallon transformed the premises into the House of Arts and Recreation, keeping only the 1677 gate and the west wing of the convent.

Today, the former Hôtel-Dieu houses the tourism office of Laon. Its history illustrates the changes in hospital institutions, from medieval origins to modern adaptations, while at the same time testifying to the architectural and social heritage of the city. The 17th century remains, classified and protected, recall the importance of this place in the collective memory of Laos.

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