Hôpital Saint-Jacques de Besançon, 17th-century hospital and heritage site in Besançon, France

Hôpital Saint-Jacques de Besançon is a 17th-century hospital and protected historical monument in France. The building features a U-shaped layout with classical architecture, generous courtyards, and an ornate entrance gate decorated with wrought ironwork.

The hospital was founded in 1182 to provide shelter for pilgrims and was run by clergy members. The building that stands today was constructed between 1686 and 1703 in the classical style.

The hospital keeps one of France's finest old apothecary shops, its collection of 17th- and 18th-century faïence assembled around 1680 by the apothecary Gabriel Gascon. The gate inscription above the entrance quotes Psalm X, 14: "Tibi derelictus est pauper. Orphano tu eris adjutor" — the poor are entrusted to you, you will aid the orphan.

The site is located in central Besançon and is easily accessible by public transport. Visitors can explore the grounds during regular opening hours, and guided tours are available to explain the building's history and architecture.

The wrought-iron entrance grille was made by locksmith Nicolas Chappuis in 1703; the original is now stored at the Citadel, and a copy stands in its place. Above the door, a Latin inscription from Psalm X, 14 reads: "Tibi derelictus est pauper. Orphano tu eris adjutor" (the poor are left to you; you will be the helper of the orphan).