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Origin and history

The Nevers Chamber of Accounts is a medieval public building located on No. 4 of Marguerite Duras Street, in the city of Nevers. Built in the 15th century, it illustrates the Gothic architecture flamboyant by its richly decorated portal, typical of the administrative buildings of the period. Its local stone apparatus, vulnerable to frost, now shows signs of advanced degradation, but retains an evocative silhouette of its past prestige.

Inspired by the Chamber of Accounts of Dijon, founded in 1386 by Philippe le Hardi, Duke of Burgundy, that of Nevers was established in 1405 by his son, Philippe, Count of Nevers. The latter wanted to provide the Nivernais with an autonomous financial and judicial institution, marking the affirmation of the Ducal power in the region. The richness of its external setting made the official and solemn character of its functions.

The portal, the most remarkable element of the building, embodies the flamboyant Gothic style with its complex motifs and neat ornamentation. This type of architecture, common for public buildings in the late Middle Ages, was intended to impress and symbolize authority. Despite the alterations suffered by the stone over the centuries, this architectural detail remains a valuable testimony to the administrative and artistic history of Nivernais.

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