Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The town hall and the Saint-Flour Savings Bank were built between 1893 and 1895 by architect Grandin. The latter favoured harmonious integration with the existing architectural context, using local materials and adopting an eclectic style combining neo-Renaissance, neo-classical and medieval influences. This choice reflects a desire to respect the visual identity of the city while modernizing its administrative infrastructure.

In 1910, the town hall was transferred to the former episcopal palace, acquired by the municipality. The liberated part of the original building was then leased to the PTT administration by the Savings Bank. Between 1914 and 1916, the artist G. Souchon made frescoes illustrating significant episodes of local history, adding a cultural and historical dimension to the building. These murals, still visible, bear witness to Saint-Flour's rich heritage.

The Savings Bank occupied the premises until 1997, when it moved its offices to 19, Cours Spy-des-Ternes. Since then, the building, now owned by Saint-Flour Communauté, houses a Maison de l'Habitat and a Centre d'interprétation de l'architecture et du patrimoine (CIAP), part of the Country of Art and History label. This reconversion illustrates a desire to preserve and enhance this heritage while adapting to contemporary needs.

The City Hall and Savings Bank were registered as historical monuments by order of 19 May 2003. This protection recognizes its architectural and artistic value, particularly for its interior decorations, including the large hall with its staircase, its paintings, as well as the rooms on the first floor (grey lounge, council hall, large wedding hall).

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