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History of the "Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne".
The palace of Dukes in Dijon (Palais des Dukes) is one of the historical highlights to visit. It is now the city hall with the mayor's office and other administrative offices... Before it was the throne of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy. The tower of Philippe le Bon gives an impressive view of the Dijon city.
The first buildings came in 1365, after the Burgundy Ducs left the city of Beaune to install their power in the the more prominent city of Dijon. The first buildings were built on the ruins of a once Gallo-Roman fortress.
As time passed, buildings and offices were added in a chaotic manner, with a resulting problem of management and organization. The first steps in regaining control came with the construction of a general assembly hall, under the direction of the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart. In the 18th century much renovation and construction laid in the responsibility of Jaques Gabriel.
The once kitchens, which provided a huge quantity of meals to the dukes, was demolished and the principle stones used to build the theater of Dijon.
As the power of the burgundy state rose, the palace became handsomely decorated and flamboyant.
Joined to the main buildings is the Museum of Art, and very close by the cathedral Notre Dame, the church Saint Michael, and the old "Corn Exchange".
Not all parts of the Palace can be visited, and during important manifestations the gates will actually be closed to the public. The visit is interesting with and English speaking guide, and if you do not mind steps, take a climb up the "Tour de Philippe le Bon". You'll have an impressive view of Dijon with the plains of the Saone river and hills of the vine yards.
