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Origin and history

Gay-Lussac High School, located in Limoges, Upper Vienna, is the oldest public educational institution in the city. Founded in 1525 by the consuls of Limoges, it actually opened in 1583 under the name Collège Sainte-Marie, entrusted to the Jesuits in 1598. The school expanded rapidly with 32 teachers and 1100 pupils, before being restructured after the Jesuit order was abolished in 1762.

The Jesuit Chapel, built between 1607 and 1629, houses a 17th century altarpiece classified as a historical monument. The high school, closed in 1792, reopened under the Executive Board as a central school, then became an imperial high school under Napoleon I. In 1890 he took the name Gay-Lussac, in tribute to the chemist born in Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat.

During the Second World War, the high school served as a refuge for Jews and Alsatians, thanks to the action of principal Joseph Storck. In 1936, both campaniles and the 17th century portal were listed as historical monuments. Today, the high school combines educational tradition and architectural heritage, despite controversial renovations.

The current building retains historical elements, such as the 1685 gate, which was dismantled and reassembled in 1967. The architect Joseph Brousseau, known for his sober work, designed the main facade in the 18th century. The chapel, disused in 1914, served as a gymnasium and cultural space before being restored in 2008.

The high school trained literary and scientific personalities, and its association of former students, founded in 1867, perpetuates its heritage. In 2017, the majority of buildings were listed as Historic Monuments, with the exception of the 1960s wing. The chapel rehabilitation project, carried out by local associations, is still awaiting funding.

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