Initial construction 1881-1883 (≈ 1882)
Directed by Antoine Gouy for the Royal-Splendide-Excelsior complex.
1906
Arrangements by Olivet
Arrangements by Olivet 1906 (≈ 1906)
Modernisation of the hotel by architect Olivet.
30 décembre 1987
Partial protection
Partial protection 30 décembre 1987 (≈ 1987)
Classification and inscription of facades and interiors.
5 novembre 2010
Garden protection
Garden protection 5 novembre 2010 (≈ 2010)
Registration of terraces and historic gardens.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The vestibule and the large living room with the decor (Box BZ 60): by order of 30 December 1987 - The facades and roofs and the common parts of the current floors: inscription by decree of 30 December 1987 - All the gardens and terraces of the ancient palaces Royal and Splendid and the corresponding plot (Box BZ 384): inscription by decree of 5 November 2010
Key figures
Antoine Gouy - Owner
Designed the initial plans (1881-1883).
Olivet M. - Architect
Made the 1906 modifications.
Clermont et Brosset - Painters
Authors of interior frescoes.
Origin and history
The Splendid Hotel in Aix-les-Bains is an ancient palace emblematic of the spa, built between 1881 and 1883 according to the plans of architect Antoine Gouy. It is the first phase of the vast Royal-Splendide-Excelsior complex, a symbol of the city's seaside prestige at the end of the 19th century. Its neoclassical facades and sumptuous interiors, including frescoes signed by Geneva artists Clermont and Brosset, reflect the opulence of the era.
In 1906, the architect Olivet made additional improvements to modernize the establishment. Partially classified in 1987 (stairs, elevator cages, wrought iron ramp) and registered for its facades and roofs, the Splendid lost its hotel function in the 20th century. Today, it is transformed into a building of apartments and retains traces of its fascinating past, especially in its common areas and gardens, also protected since 2010.
The palace was part of the golden age of Aix-les-Bains, when the European bourgeoisie flocked for its spa treatments and leisure. The Royal-Splendide-Excelsior complex, of which it is the flagship, illustrates luxury seaside architecture, combining modern comfort and artistic decor. Its decline as a hotel coincides with the evolution of tourist practices, but its architectural heritage remains a major testimony of this time.
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