Prefecture hotel of Loire-Atlantique, Government administrative building in central Nantes, France
The Prefecture Hotel of Loire-Atlantique is an administrative building in Nantes featuring a symmetrical neoclassical facade with Ionic columns and a monumental five-level entrance stairway. The staircase is proportionally much wider than the height of the entrance area, dominating the building's appearance.
The building was originally constructed between 1515 and 1553 under François I and Henri II as part of regional administrative infrastructure. Starting in 1763, architect Jean-Baptiste Ceineray completely rebuilt it, transforming it into its present neoclassical form.
The building reflects French administrative design through its decorated vaulted rooms that serve different official functions today. Walking through these spaces gives a sense of how regional government conducts its formal business and ceremonies.
The building is located in central Nantes and easily visible from the street, making it straightforward to locate. Visitors should note that as an active administrative building, access can be limited depending on official activities and schedules.
The building received protected monument status in 1947, marking official recognition of its cultural importance. This designation came over a century after its 18th-century transformation and underscores its significance for the region's architectural and administrative heritage.
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