BISHOPS' PALACE

After 17 years of construction, this jewel of heritage with its hundred or so rooms is revealed to the public. This former episcopal palace, now private, was the main residence of the bishops of Viviers, lords of Bourg-Saint-Andéol from the 13th century. The Palace was embellished during the 15th century by Guillaume de Poitiers and Jean de Montchenu, giving it its current appearance, particularly with the creation of a unique set consisting of the banquet hall and large kitchens. At the beginning of the 16th century, Claude de Tournon in turn made some changes. In the following century, another bishop, Monseigneur de la Baume de la Suze, adorned his palace with exceptional painted decorations, such as the room with the painted ceiling where Mazarin stayed in 1642. The palace later became a seminary, then a religious school. Today, it is a private property, entirely classified as a historical monument since 1946, whose renovation continues with the participation of craftsmen working in the rules of art. The monument houses the René Margotton Museum (1915-2009). His sacred works are shown in the chapel, his secular works in various rooms. The palace's kitchens have just been restored. Take the time to discover the palace garden with its rose garden of old roses, from the Berty rose garden, and its collection of aromatic and medicinal plants. There is also a programme of events: candlelight tours, classical music festival, 15th century meals, etc.