Tombeaux des Ducs de Bourgogne

The Tombeaux des Ducs de Bourgogne is a chamber within the Palais des Ducs in Dijon containing elaborate tomb monuments of Burgundian rulers. The space houses two grand ducal tombs created around 1450, their surfaces enriched with architectural features like arcades and recessed niches that frame rows of carved figures.

The chamber was constructed between 1450 and 1455 under Duke Philip III and initially served different functions. The tombs of Duke Philippe le Hardi and Jean sans Peur were moved to this room in 1827, centuries after their original burials.

The mourner sculptures display a range of personal grief gestures, from veiled faces to outstretched hands, reflecting how people expressed sorrow in medieval times. This artistic portrayal of emotion makes the works a powerful record of craftsmanship and human expression.

The room is part of the Fine Arts Museum of Dijon and is accessible along with other exhibition areas. Visitors should allow time to examine the sculptures closely, as each figure displays individual features and expressions worth studying.

Many of the mourner figures bear damage from the French Revolution, yet still display their original craftsmanship and detail. These marks tell a story of political turmoil and artistic resilience.

Location: Dijon

Part of: Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy

GPS coordinates: 47.32160,5.04237

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02