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Origin and history

The Hotel-Dieu Saint-Nicolas de Troyes, also known as a civil hospice, is a neo-classical monument built between 1836 and 1844 on the plans of architect Pierre Gauthier. It replaces an ancient medieval hospice founded in the 12th century by the cathedral chapter, originally intended for pilgrims and inhabitants. This first establishment, of modest size (less than a dozen religious), declined from the 14th century before being reorganized in 1630 under the name of Enfermerie or Renfermerie, bringing together several local hospital foundations.

The chapel, rebuilt in the 16th century thanks to the donations of Jean Brodart (curé de Creney and master of the hospital), retains a painted decoration made in 1845 by Anne-François Arnaud, as well as stained glass by M. Hugot. During the reconstruction of the 19th century, architect Gauthier integrated these historical elements while modernizing the buildings. The ensemble, including facades, roofs, grids and chapel, was inscribed in the Historical Monuments in 1996, reflecting its heritage importance.

The medieval hospice was strategically located near a city gate and a canal, facilitating hygiene and passenger reception. Managed by religious, its operation was based on (temporal) donations and provided care until the mid-20th century. The rule of Chrodegeng de Metz, mentioned to justify its creation, stressed the obligation to welcome pilgrims and sick, reflecting the social and religious importance of these institutions in the Middle Ages.

The current site, at 101 bis rue de la Cité, perpetuates this hospital vocation while embodying the architectural and charitable evolution of Troyes. The protected elements (grills, fence walls, traffic gallery) illustrate the transition from the old Renfermerie to the modern Hospice, marked by neo-classical aesthetics and 19th century hygienist innovations.

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