Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy

Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy

The Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy is a remarkably well-preserved architectural complex in the French city of Dijon. The oldest parts include the 14th- and 15th-century Gothic ducal palace and residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, the Ducal Kitchens in the Courtyard of the Barracks, the Philippe le Bon Tower, and the Courtyard of the Barracks. However, most of the buildings visible today were built in the 17th century, particularly in the 18th century, and feature classical architectural styles.

Between 1450 and 1455, Duke Philip the Good commissioned the Lyon architect Jean Poncelet to design and construct the main building of the ducal palace and the Philippe le Bon Tower, which stands 46 meters tall and is an impressive sight. Starting in 1681, the Parliament of Burgundy began to be built on the site of the ducal palace, a project that spanned nearly a century and involved numerous renowned architects. From 1685 onward, it was taken over by Mansart, the builder of the Palace of Versailles, who envisioned the overall structure of the palace centered around the Royal Square. However, the "Parliament Building" was not fully completed until 1786.

The eastern wing of the palace now houses the Fine Arts Museum, established in 1799, which is one of the largest museums in France and houses many treasures of Flemish art. Among them, the tombs of the Dukes of Burgundy are precious cultural relics, particularly the stone sarcophagus of “Philip the Bold,” which is a major highlight for visitors due to the remarkably lifelike carvings of the mourners. Another notable exhibition is the work of François Pompon, a Dijon-born animal sculptor, featuring all-black-and-white animal sculptures that are highly entertaining. The western part of the palace now serves as administrative offices for the city government.

Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy

Must-visit reason: The most magnificent ancient architectural complex in Dijon

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

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

Province/State where the attraction is located: Burgundy Region [Burgundy Region]

City where the attraction is located: Dijon [Dijon]