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Origin and history

The Loir-et-Cher Prefecture Hotel is located in the former Visitandine convent, founded in the 17th century. The north and east wings were built in 1635, followed by the west wing, the church (1641-1647) and the south wing in 1655. After the Revolution, the site successively served as a prison, barracks, military store and asylum for alienated persons. The transformation into a prefecture was decided in 1825, after the restoration of the episcopal palace to the bishopric.

The original project of architect Pierre-Jean-Alexandre Pinault envisaged the demolition of the old buildings, but only the prefectural hotel was finally built nine, at the east end of the north wing. The first stone was laid in 1826. The building, of sober style, integrates with the remains of the convent, whose chapel and some decorated salons have been protected since 1977. Today, it symbolizes Blois' religious and administrative heritage.

The site was originally that of Bourgmoyen College, installed in 1806 in the abbey buildings. The department eventually chose the less controversial Visitandines convent to establish the prefecture. The architect Pinault added a residence for the prefect, marking the transition between religious use and public service.

The facades, roofs, chapels and salons of the former convent have been listed in the Historical Monuments since 1977. Their preservation bears witness to the heritage importance of the place, mixing religious history (Visitandines), educational (college) and political (prefecture).

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