Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The building of Châteaudun is part of the vast reconstruction project of the city after the devastating fire of 21 June 1723, which destroyed more than 1,000 houses. Jules Hardouin, building controller, was tasked with developing a new urban plan in chessboard, centered on a large rectangular square. The plan included public buildings, aligned houses, and arcades housing shops. The square, designed in precise geometric proportions, was to accommodate four prominent pavilions, two of which were built: the Town Hall (1777) and another stone building. The two missing pavilions were replaced in the 20th century by a post office hotel.

The reconstruction of Châteaudun illustrates the principles of rational urban planning of the eighteenth century, combining functionality and classical aesthetics. The facades and roofs of this building, overlooking the Place du 18-Octobre (formerly central square), were protected by an order of 18 August 1953 for their heritage value. Hardouin's initial project, although partially realized, marked the urban landscape for a long time, with a square lined with arcades and public stone buildings, symbols of the revival after the disaster.

Today, the building and its surroundings bear witness to this history, with preserved architectural elements (facades, roofs) and a precise location: 5 place du 18-October. The accuracy of this location is estimated to be satisfactory a priori (note 6/10), although available sources (Monumentum, Merimée base) do not provide additional details on its current use (visit, services).

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