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Origin and history

The city hall of Troyes, built between 1624 and 1672, is a rare example of Louis XIII architecture in the Dawn. It replaces an old hotel in Mesgrigny, dating from the 14th century, which had been home to consular jurisdiction since the 16th century. This building, in ruins after the fire of 1524, was partially restored before being permanently rebuilt in the seventeenth century.

The first phase of construction (1624-1640), led by architect Louis Noblet, was marked by financial difficulties. Only the ground floor was completed before the site was abandoned. In 1665, Pierre Cottard proposed a new plan, respecting the existing facade but simplifying the building. The work resumed in 1669 and was completed in 1672, although the interior was not completed until 1703.

The building was embellished by sculptures, including a statue of Louis XIV by François Mignot in 1687, destroyed in 1793 and replaced by an allegory of Liberty. Ranked a historic monument in 1932, he retained a revolutionary motto on his porch. Two wings were added in 1934 and 1937, modernizing the whole while preserving its historical character.

Before the 17th century, the town hall occupied several places: the Belfroi (XIIIth-15th centuries), a rented house at Laurent Tournier (XVth century), and then the Mesgrigny hotel. The latter, acquired in 1494, was damaged by the fire of 1524, delaying its reconstruction. The assemblies were held at the Cordeliers during the work.

The current U-shaped city hall opens onto Claude Huez Street and houses a green space. Its main façade, on Alexander Israel Street, dominates a large hall of the city council and a parlor. Renovated in 2012, it remains a symbol of the Trojan heritage and its municipal history.

The financing of construction was complex, combining royal grants (30,000 pounds authorized by Louis XIII in 1622) and municipal funds. Delays are due to wars, economic crises and local rivalries. Despite these obstacles, the building became a central place for Troyes' political and social life.

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