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Places of interest #5 in Orléans

Hôtel Groslot

4.6 · 1,474 reviews
Grand and historical.
Hôtel Groslot, 2 Pl. de l'Étape, 45000 Orléans, France
Interesting facts
1

King Francis II died in this building at age 16 after a short stay in 1560.

2

The hotel was originally designed by the architect Jacques Androuet du Cerceau.

3

A statue of Joan of Arc is located in the courtyard, marking her historical importance to the city.

4

The interior contains a notable collection of painted wood paneling from the 19th century.

5

The building's function shifted from a private aristocratic residence to the seat of local government for nearly two centuries.

6

It is constructed primarily of red brick with stone quoins, a style typical of the period in the Orléans region.

Overview

Hôtel Groslot is a Renaissance-era hôtel particulier built between 1549 and 1558 for Jacques Groslot, the bailiff of Orléans. It served as a royal residence for kings including Francis II, who died in the building in 1560. The structure later functioned as the Orléans City Hall from 1790 to 1981. Its brick and stone facade displays classic French Renaissance architectural features. The interior is decorated with 19th-century woodwork, fireplaces, and historical furniture. Notable rooms include the Grand Salon and the former Council Chamber. The site continues to serve as a venue for official municipal ceremonies and civil weddings today. It remains an accessible historical monument showcasing the transition between medieval and Renaissance design in the Loire Valley.

Photo spot

The brick-and-stone patterned facade from the main courtyard.

Insider tips

Check the local tourism office calendar, as the building may occasionally close for private municipal functions.

Combine your visit with the nearby Orléans Cathedral, which is a short walk away.

Look for the commemorative plaques in the courtyard that detail the building's royal history.

What to avoid

Do not assume all rooms are open, as the building serves as a functional city administration space for civil weddings and ceremonies.

Good to know

May be closed during specific municipal ceremonies or private events.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings, as the building is less crowded and more likely to be fully accessible for self-guided tours.
Address
Hôtel Groslot, 2 Pl. de l'Étape, 45000 Orléans, France
47.903, 1.908
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleFrench Renaissance
Key Historical FiguresFrancis II, Catherine de' Medici

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings, as the building is less crowded and more likely to be fully accessible for self-guided tours..

The brick-and-stone patterned facade from the main courtyard.

Close by you'll find Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d'Orléans, Parc Pasteur, Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Orléans.