Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The town hall of Auch was built in the second half of the 18th century to replace the former common house, whose facades had been removed during urban changes. In 1759, intendant Antoine Mégret d'Étigny launched the project, motivated by the deterioration of the existing building. The works began in 1760, but Mégret d'Etigny died in 1767 without seeing their completion. The building was finally completed in 1778, combining administrative and cultural functions with the integration of a 600-seat theatre in its left wing.

The building is distinguished by its two facades pierced by many bays, the main one with a pediment decorated with a clock framed with military trophies (arms, flags). A wrought iron campanile crowns the ensemble, while a balcony, also made of wrought iron, features the municipal shield and two medallions symbolizing the arts (lyre) and defense (cover and quiver). Access is via a porch leading to a vestibule with a monumental staircase.

Ranked a historic monument in 1947, the town hall illustrates civil architecture of the Enlightenment in Occitanie. Its theatre, which is still active, bears witness to the desire to combine political life and cultural influence from its conception. The sources (Wikipedia, Monumentum) underline its central role in the city, both administratively and artistically.

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