Halle aux Grains, Blois, Historical grain hall in central Blois, France.
The Halle aux Grains is a rectangular building in central Blois featuring four polygonal corner towers with spiral staircases inside. It was constructed using limestone blocks and multicolored bricks, with an interior hemicycle designed to seat about 630 people.
Construction began in 1849 to replace the previous thirteenth-century grain market that no longer met the city's growing needs. The new building was intended to provide a modern solution for grain trade and storage.
The building now serves as the National Stage of Blois and draws visitors seeking theater and art exhibitions. The interior hemicycle creates a special setting for cultural events throughout the year.
The site operates as a congress and cultural center managed by the tourism office and offers events throughout the year. Visitors should check ahead for upcoming programs and take advantage of its central location to explore the surrounding area.
The building faced scheduled demolition in 1981 but was saved through the intervention of Jack Lang and subsequently listed as a historical monument. This rescue effort led to its current role as a cultural institution for the city.
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