Construction of theatre 2e quart du XIXe siècle (≈ 1937)
Period of initial construction of the monument.
21 décembre 1984
Registration Historic Monument
Registration Historic Monument 21 décembre 1984 (≈ 1984)
Protection of facades and roofs by stop.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Facades and roofs (Case AO 92): inscription by order of 21 December 1984
Origin and history
The Salins-les-Bains Theatre is an emblematic building of the city, erected during the 2nd quarter of the 19th century. Located at 8 bis rue de la République, it embodies the cultural architecture of this period, marked by the rise of the entertainment halls in the thermal and bourgeois cities. Its inscription as a Historic Monument in 1984 protects its facades and roofs, emphasizing its heritage importance.
The construction of this theatre is part of a context where Salins-les-Bains, renowned for its saline sources and thermal baths, attracts an easy population in search of leisure and culture. The theatres of that time played a central role in social life, offering varied entertainment while reflecting the prestige of the communes that housed them. At this time, Burgundy-Franche-Comté, then in full industrial and urban transformation, sees this type of equipment multiply, symbols of modernity and local radiance.
The facades and roofs of the theatre, protected by decree of 21 December 1984, are the only elements explicitly mentioned as subject to a preservation measure. The location of the building, specified as "satisfactory" (note 7/10), allows it to be located with relative accuracy in the urban fabric of Salins-les-Bains. Owned by the municipality, this theatre could, according to available information, be open to visits or rentals, although these practical details are not confirmed by the sources.
No information is available on architects, sponsors or major events related to this theatre. Sources are limited to administrative and descriptive data, without details of its historical use or possible restorations. The Burgundy-Franche-Comté region, to which Salins-les-Bains belongs, is known for its rich heritage, but this monument remains little documented beyond its basic characteristics.
The Mérimée base, as well as the Monumentum platform, list this theatre among the protected monuments of the Jura, department of which Salins-les-Bains is an emblematic commune. The Insee code 39500 and membership in the district of Lons-le-Saunier complete the available geographical data. Finally, the lack of details on its current state or contemporary usage limits the understanding of its role in the city's current cultural life.
