Hospices de Beaune, Hôtel-Dieu
The Hospices de Beaune, also known as Hôtel-Dieuare one of the most remarkable historical monuments in the whole of France. Burgundy. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque town of Beaune, these hospices are not only a site of great historical value, but also an emblem of commitment to charity and support for the needy.
Founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, Chancellor of the Dukes of Burgundy, and his wife Guigone de Salins, the Hospices de Beaune were conceived as a "place of healing". a "house of comfort" for the suffering, including the sick, disabled, orphans and elderly, offering them care free of charge. Today, transformed into a museum dedicated to the history of medicine, this heritage site attracts visitors from all walks of life, eager to explore its exceptional flamboyant Gothic architecture and immerse themselves in its fascinating history.
History of the Hospices de Beaune
The foundation in 1443
On August 4, 1443, Nicolas Rolin, chancellor to the Duke of Burgundy, and his wife Guigone de Salins established the Hospices de Beaune. This creation was intended to provide support during a period marked by misery, famine following the Hundred Years' War, and a plague epidemic. The aim was to provide shelter and medical care for the region's poor, sick and orphaned.
The role of Hospices in society from the Middle Ages to the present day
Since its inception, the Hospices de Beaune has been a pillar of the local community, offering medical care, shelter and spiritual guidance to the needy. The institution was run by the Hospice Sisters of Beaune, a religious order founded by Nicolas Rolin, dedicated to the well-being of patients.
The Hospices operated as a hospital until the early 1970s, when services and patients were moved to a modern facility outside the historic center.
Architectural and heritage evolution
The architecture of the Hospices de Beaune is exemplary of the flamboyant Gothic style of the 15th century, and was probably designed by the Flemish architect Jacques Wiscrère. The building is distinguished by its half-timbered galleries and colorful roofs, typical of Burgundy.
The stone courtyard and well-preserved wings of the building include spaces such as the historic kitchen, apothecary and chapel decorated with polychrome vaults and beams. Now a museum, the site boasts a rich collection of historical artifacts, including Rogier van der Weyden's famous Last Judgment, commissioned by Nicolas Rolin for the chapel.
Visiting the Hospices de Beaune: what you need to know
Hôtel-Dieu's main attractions
When you visit the Hospices de Beaune, you're greeted by a series of remarkable attractions that make this a unique and captivating site. The inner courtyard, famous for its colorful glazed tile roofs, is a true architectural gem.
The tour also takes you through the historic kitchen, where meals were prepared by the sisters for patients, and the apothecary, where medicines were prepared. Not forgetting the chapel, home to Rogier van der Weyden's "Last Judgment" polyptych, a work not to be missed.
Practical information for your visit
To organize your visit to the Hospices de Beaune, a few practical details are essential. Located in the heart of Beaune, rue de l'Hôtel-Dieu, the Hospices are open all year round. However, opening hours vary according to the season, so it's advisable to check before your visit. An audio-guided tour will enrich your experience, giving you a detailed insight into the history and features of each room.
Guided and self-guided tour options
Hospices de Beaune offers a variety of tour options, depending on your preferences. Guided tours, led by expert guides, provide in-depth commentary on the site. Audio-guided tours, available in several languages, give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. For visitors with children, specially designed tours for youngsters make the experience both entertaining and instructive.
Hospice de Beaune Hôtel-Dieu - Prices and recommendations for your visit
Individual and group rates in detail
Visits to the Hospices de Beaune are priced according to the age and status of the visitor. Adults (aged 18 and over) can enter the site for €12, and enjoy a self-guided tour with a leaflet or audioguide. A preferential rate of €9 is available for students under 26, large families, jobseekers and other eligible groups.
Young people aged 10 to 17 are entitled to a reduced rate of €5. Admission is free for children under 10, disabled people and their carers, and Hospices Civils de Beaune staff.
Adults: €12 self-guided tour and audioguide
Young people aged 10-17: €5 self-guided tour and audioguide
Children under 10: free admission
Reduced rate: €9 (students, large families, jobseekers, disabled people)
Tips for an enriching visit
We advise you to book your visit in advance, especially if you'd like to take a guided tour. These, at a cost of €12 per person, allow you to explore the site in greater depth, with detailed explanations of its history and special features. It's also advisable to check opening times before your visit, as they can vary according to the season. Finally, don't forget the public parking lots located around the historic center for easy access to the site.
Special events and rummage sales
Hospices de Beaune is renowned for its annual wine sale in November, a major charity event that attracts wine enthusiasts from all over the world. The sale supports the Hospices' charitable activities while offering the opportunity to discover exceptional Burgundy wines. The site also hosts temporary exhibitions and themed events throughout the year, enriching the visitor experience.
The Hospices de Beaune wine auction: A prestigious tradition
Visit Hospices de Beaune wine sale is much more than a simple auction. It's an annual event of worldwide renown, combining tradition, charity and the tasting of great Burgundy wines.
To finance this work, the Hospices own a vast vineyard spread over some of Burgundy's finest appellations.
What does the sale involve?
Every third Sunday in November, the Hospices organize a very special auction. The wines on offer come from the year's harvests, and are sold in "pièces" (228-liter barrels). These pieces are often named in honor of benefactors or personalities linked to the history of the Hospices.
Features of this sale:
- Charity: Part of the profits are donated to charity.
- Tradition: The auction takes place in a festive and solemn atmosphere, in the courtyard of Beaune's Hôtel-Dieu.
- Prestige: The wines on offer are among the most sought-after in the world, offering a unique opportunity to acquire great Burgundy vintages.
Examples of Hospices de Beaune wines
Hospices de Beaune wines cover a wide range of appellations, from villages to grands crus:
- Beaune: This is the most represented appellation in the Hospices domain. Beaune wines are generally red, fruity and elegant.
- Pommard: These red wines are renowned for their tannic structure and ageing potential.
- Corton: A prestigious Grand Cru, Corton offers complex, powerful red wines.
- Meursault: An emblematic appellation for Burgundy whites, Meursault des Hospices is often a wine of great finesse.
- Puligny-Montrachet: These whites are renowned for their minerality and elegance.
A few emblematic pieces:
- Cuvée Meursault Charmes: A white wine of great finesse and complexity.
- Cuvée Corton: A powerful, structured red.
- Cuvée Beaune: A fruity, elegant red.
Why should you be interested in Hospices de Beaune wines?
- Outstanding quality: Les Hospices benefits from ancestral know-how and an exceptional terroir.
- Investment: Hospice wines tend to increase in value over time.
- Charity: By buying a Hospices wine, you're contributing to a noble cause.
- A unique experience: Attending a sale is an unforgettable experience for any wine lover.
Hospices de Beaune Hôtel-Dieu - Conclusion
The Hospices de Beaune are a priceless historical and cultural gem in Burgundy. Founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin and Guigone de Salins, they initially served as a hospital for the most destitute. Over time, they were transformed into an iconic museum and bastion of charity. Exploring the Hospices offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the brilliance of flamboyant Gothic architecture, admire masterpieces such as Rogier van der Weyden's polyptych, while grasping the essential role of philanthropy in regional development.
Don't miss the annual wine sale, a flagship charity event that supports the Hospices' initiatives. Visiting this heritage treasure also means helping to preserve its rich legacy for future generations.
Hospices de Beaune Hôtel-Dieu - FAQ
Why visit the Hospices de Beaune?
A visit to the Hospices de Beaune is a unique opportunity to discover a masterpiece of flamboyant Gothic architecture. This emblematic site boasts typical Burgundian glazed tile roofs and an impressive Salle des Pôvres. Visitors can also explore the history of medicine and charity through its museum, not forgetting the exceptional stained glass windows that adorn the site.
Which film was shot at the Hospices de Beaune?
The Hospices de Beaune has been the setting for several film productions, including La Grande Vadrouille by Gérard Oury in 1966. More recently, in 2023, the site hosted the filming of The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan and The Three Musketeers: Milady by Martin Bourboulon.
What is the history of the Hospices de Beaune?
Founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin and his wife Guigone de Salins in response to the crises of their time, the Hospices de Beaune were initially designed to provide a home for the most destitute. Today, they symbolize an important aspect of 15th-century Burgundian architecture. Designed by Flemish architects, they served as a hospital until 1971. Today, they house a museum and a renowned winery, whose wines are auctioned each year for charity.
What was the purpose of the hospices?
Historically, hospices fulfilled several key roles, offering hospitality to clerics, pilgrims and travelers. Today, they continue to play an important social role, providing care and accommodation for the elderly, infirm and incurable, with an emphasis on comfort and quality of life for patients at the end of life.
Find out more about the Hospices de Beaune, visit the official website here.
