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Origin and history

Salmaise Hall is a medieval stone building located in the village of Salmaise in Côte-d'Or, 400 metres above sea level. Built in the second half of the 13th century, it is distinguished by its two-paned frame without intermediate support, covered with lauze, and its straight facade decorated with 11 square pillars. Some of these pillars, reused, date from the Gallo-Roman era, showing architectural continuity.

The hall was built thanks to a charter of freedoms granted on May 12, 1265 by Étienne II de Mont-Saint-Jean, allowing the inhabitants of Salmaise to create this covered market. A coat of arms on the last pillar, representing a crescent and three stars, could be that of William II, lord of Salmaise, who died in 1250 during the seventh crusade. This venue served as the focal point for public meetings, appointments of local officers, and hosted annual markets and fairs.

Ranked a historic monument by decree of 4 August 1930, the hall remains a symbol of the communal heritage. However, its closeness and proximity to the main road limit its use. It embodies the importance of medieval halls as spaces for commerce and social life in Burgundy villages.

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