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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Alençon Wheat Hall, located in Halle-au-Blé Square in Orne, is an iconic building built in the early 19th century. Its first stone was laid on 18 June 1806, and the opening took place in 1812. This building, dedicated to cereal trade, reflected the economic importance of the region, which was marked by prosperous agriculture and dynamic local trade. Its initial, functional architecture met the needs of a central covered market for the city.

In 1836, a fire partially ravaged the hall, requiring reconstruction. This phase marked an evolution of its structure, before the major addition of 1865: a glassed metal dome, whose plans are attributed to Gustave Eiffel. This technical innovation, characteristic of the industrial revolution, modernised the building and strengthened its role as a commercial and social gathering place. The hall symbolized architectural progress and adaptation to new materials.

Ranked a historic monument since October 29, 1975, the Wheat Hall today bears witness to the industrial and merchant heritage of Normandy. Its dome, a remarkable element, and its turbulent history make it an emblematic site of Alençon. Owned by the commune, it remains a place rooted in local life, between historical memory and contemporary uses (visits, events).

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