Hôtel-Dieu de Clermont-Ferrand, Historic hospital in central Clermont-Ferrand, France
The Hôtel-Dieu de Clermont-Ferrand is a large hospital complex in the southern part of the old town with multiple wings and gardens spread across the grounds. Built from local Volvic stone, the interconnected buildings form a cohesive ensemble that has served medical purposes for centuries.
Construction took place between 1767 and 1773 to replace three smaller medical facilities in the city. Architect Jean Teillard designed the complex according to contemporary ideas about how hospitals should be organized and function.
The building displays 18th-century French hospital design through its stone facades and room layouts that reflect how medicine and patient care were understood at the time. Walking through the spaces today, one can sense the original purpose behind every corridor and courtyard.
The complex is currently undergoing transformation after closing as a hospital in 2010. Parts of the building are being converted into residential spaces and a community library as the renovation progresses.
Archaeological digs conducted between 2020 and 2021 uncovered remains dating to the 2nd century beneath the grounds. These discoveries reveal that the site held importance long before the hospital was built.
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