Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Grand Balcony Hotel is an iconic building located in Toulouse, in the Haute-Garonne department, in the Occitanie region. Built in the mid-19th century, it is distinguished by its distinctive architecture and its strategic location at the corner of Rue des Lois and Rue Romiguières. Originally conceived as a hotel for travellers, it quickly becomes a must-see place in the pink city.

Starting in 1919, the hotel acquired an international reputation by becoming the preferred destination for the Aeropostal pilots. Legendary aviation figures, such as Jean Mermoz and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, regularly stayed there. Mermoz occupies room No 20, while Saint-Exupéry resides in room No 32, whose balcony offers stunning views of the Place du Capitole. These visits turn the hotel into a symbol of the 20th century aerial epic.

Room No. 32, which housed Saint-Exupéry, was preserved in its original state, keeping the memory of these pioneers in aviation. In January 1999, part of the hotel, including facades, roofs, large hall, staircase, reception and famous room No. 32, was listed as historical monuments. Today, the hotel remains a place full of history, evoking the spirit of adventure and camaraderie of the "team of the Grand Balcony".

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