The evolution of the Palais épiscopal d'Auxerre

The Palais Épiscopal d'Auxerre is a monument historique in Auxerre, France, with the oldest parts of the buildings dating back to the 12th century. While it is known today as the episcopal palace, this term only dates from the 15th century; previously, it was simply the home of the bishop. Since 1791, the complex has served as the seat of the departmental administration and has been classified as a monument historique since 1846.

The site has a long history of reconstruction and expansion. Following a great fire in 887, Bishop Hérifrid chose to live in a small dwelling while prioritizing the reconstruction of the three churches in the cathedral quarter and the Saint-Clément church. Later, Bishop Gaudry completed the reconstruction of the episcopal house, adding a wooden chapter hall and two stone houses - one for the bishop and one for his servants.

Centuries of modifications followed, including the construction of a double chapel dedicated to Saint-Nicolas by Guy de Mello and a gallery connecting the synodal hall to Saint-Étienne by Jean Baillet. By 1791, the buildings were in a state of decay, leading to several structural changes in the 19th century. In 1814, a larger opening was made to the prefecture square, and in 1825, architect Leblanc replaced the apartments created by Dominique Séguier with a building featuring a square plan.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons