Toulouse City Hall

Toulouse City Hall

Toulouse City Hall is located in the southern French city of Toulouse. Originally built in 1190, it served as the governmental seat for this province that was growing in wealth and influence. Its original name “Capitole” is derived from the Capitoline Hill in Rome.

In the 20th century, the 2-hectare Capitole Square in front of Toulouse City Hall was redesigned. Some parts of the interior of the City Hall date back to the 16th century, while the current façade is 135 meters long, constructed with pink bricks in the neoclassical architectural style. It was built in 1750 and designed by Guillaume Cammas. This old town hall office building makes a deep impression, especially with its row of white marble columns at the front. In 1873, Eugène Viollet-le-Duc added a typically northern French-style belfry atop the watchtower. It was in this watchtower that the Protestant Jean Calas was interrogated due to religious prejudice.

Of the original medieval buildings, only the Henri IV Courtyard and gate have survived. It was in this courtyard that the Duke of Montmorency was beheaded for opposing Cardinal Richelieu. In 1995, Capitole Square underwent a complete redesign, preserving pedestrian space. Today, the City Hall also houses an opera company and a symphony orchestra.

Capitole de Toulouse

Reason to visit: One of Toulouse’s most iconic landmarks

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: France[France]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Midi-Pyrénées Region [Midi-Pyrénées Region]

City where the attraction is located: Toulouse [Toulouse]