Construction of main body 1502 (≈ 1502)
Presumed date of the flamboyant Gothic building.
1508
First administrative function
First administrative function 1508 (≈ 1508)
Guillaume Bourneau practised there as lieutenant general.
1856-1862
Addition of the neo-gothic wing
Addition of the neo-gothic wing 1856-1862 (≈ 1859)
Works led by Charles Joly-Leterme.
16 février 1903
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 16 février 1903 (≈ 1903)
Protection of the 16th century building.
6 septembre 1995
Registration of the 19th Wing
Registration of the 19th Wing 6 septembre 1995 (≈ 1995)
Heritage recognition of the extension.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The old parts: classification by decree of 16 February 1903 - Extension carried out in the years 1858 and following (with its interior decorations in particular) , in continuity of the Town Hall of the late 15th century, as well as the Council Chamber then arranged on the floor of the latter (Box AR 42): inscription by order of 6 September 1995
Key figures
Guillaume Bourneau - Lieutenant-General of Saumur
First administrative occupant in 1508.
Charles Joly-Leterme - 19th century architect
Manufacturer of the neo-gothic wing (1856-1862).
Origin and history
The city hall of Saumur is an emblematic civil building, built in the late 15th and 16th centuries, integrated with the fortifications of the city. Its flamboyant Gothic architecture, marked by braces, twisted columns and a frieze of vines, reflects its initial defensive role. The north face, without openings and with slots and mâchicoulis, strengthened its protective function against external attacks. The building became an administrative place as early as 1508, under the leadership of Guillaume Bourneau, Lieutenant General of Saumur.
In the 19th century, between 1856 and 1862, a neo-Gothic wing was added by architect Charles Joly-Leterme, illustrating the enthusiasm of the era for this style. This project, initiated in 1844, is one of the first examples of neo-Gothic civil architecture in France. The original 16th century building was listed as a historic monument in 1903, while the 19th century extension was registered in 1995, highlighting its dual heritage value.
The symmetry of the building, combined with its defensive elements (shafts, high walls), demonstrates its strategic importance in the urban landscape of Saumur. The neo-Gothic wing, with its preserved interior decorations, completes the ensemble by offering a stylistic contrast between the eras. Today, the city hall remains a symbol of the Angelian heritage, mixing medieval history and Second Empire heritage.
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