Hospice de la Charité, Historical monument in Mâcon, France
The Hospice de la Charité is a former hospital in Mâcon comprising four building sections arranged around an inner courtyard in a trapezoidal layout. The stone facade faces Rue Carnot, and the entire structure is being transformed into 64 residential apartments and two professional spaces.
Saint Vincent de Paul founded this institution in 1621 to care for the poor in Mâcon. The renowned architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot undertook a comprehensive reconstruction between 1752 and 1762.
The chapel in the northwest corner displays an elliptical shape with two gallery levels, where patients could participate in religious services from their designated areas. This spatial arrangement reflects how faith was woven into the daily life of this institution.
The building is located at 249 Rue Carnot and is currently undergoing extensive renovation, which may limit public access. It is wise to check local information about opening times and accessibility before planning a visit.
Near the entrance stands a foundling wheel, one of the few surviving examples in France, which remained in use until its prohibition in 1904. This small mechanical device was once a crucial feature for abandoned infants left at the facility.
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