PREFECTURE HOTEL

The building was built in the 18th century in place of the former bishop's palace, which was burnt down in 1836, restored and damaged again during the First World War. From 1800, when Bonaparte appointed the first prefects, this former bishopric was bought by the State to become the residence of its new local representative. Since then, more than sixty prefects have resided in this sumptuous residence, which in some respects is reminiscent of the Hôtel Matignon in Paris. Prior to the 1982 decentralisation laws, the Prefect was the executive of the department, which is why the General Council Chamber used to communicate with his cabinet. This meeting room is occasionally used for certain ceremonies. The Hôtel de la Préfecture is a place where many ceremonies and receptions are held. This is why the dining room is so spacious. Decorated with superb Arras porcelain, it has welcomed many personalities. The building opens onto a park of about 4 hectares, which still houses a wood and a vegetable garden, as in the time of the bishopric. The bishops' residences were in fact designed to be almost self-sufficient!