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 apothecary inside displays ceramics from the 17th and 18th centuries that tell the story of how pharmaceutical practices changed in France over time. You can see the actual vessels and containers that were used to prepare and store medicines.
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 building underwent renovation in the 1950s and gained innovative operating theaters with elliptical dome designs that featured new lighting and antiseptic techniques. These surgical spaces were considered advanced for their time.
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