Town hall of Arras, Gothic town hall in Place des Héros, France
The town hall of Arras is a Gothic building with a facade featuring pointed arches, gilded decorations, and detailed stone carvings across multiple levels. The interior houses administrative rooms and provides access to underground passages called Les Boves.
The original 16th-century building was destroyed by artillery fire in 1914. This was followed by complete reconstruction between 1924 and 1932 under the direction of architect Pierre Paquet.
The reception hall displays a large fresco inspired by Bruegel's artistic style alongside carved wooden panels, showing the artistic ambitions of the post-war reconstruction era. These decorative elements reflect how the city wanted to express its cultural identity during rebuilding.
Visitors can explore the interior through guided tours, accessing both the administrative sections and the underground passages. It is recommended to check tour schedules beforehand, as access is usually only granted with a guide.
The wedding hall displays a large painting by Louis Jaulmes from the 1930s that depicts women and flowers using a specialized technique. This artwork is a memorable addition to the interior decoration that many visitors overlook.
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