Founded in the 15th Century, the Hospices de Beaune are an architectural gem perfectly positioned in the heart of the charming, historic wine capital of Burgundy.
Built to relieve pain
Originally, the building was used for a charitable cause. In 1443, Nicolas Robin (Chancellor of the Duke of Burgundy) endeavoured to create a hospice that would look after the poor of Beaune, a town struggling with misery and famine at the time of the Hundred Years’ War.
This large Gothic architectural creation comprises of:
- A museum and three courtyards;
- Outbuildings;
- Wine cellars spanning hundreds of yards, notably conserving the wines of the hospices.
The Gothic design of these buildings, and their glazed roofs covered in geometric shapes, are the most striking features of this listed historical establishment in the centre of Burgundy’s wine capital.
One of the most prestigious historical monuments in France
The four buildings that surround the Cour d'Honneur (three-sided courtyard) are open to the public and make up the former Hôtel-Dieu (hospice), which has since become a museum.
This well-kept monument is a classic example of civil architecture from the Middle-Ages. It holds an impressively diverse collection of 5000 works: furniture, tapestries, pots from pharmacies and even paintings, of which the most famous is without doubt the Beaune Altarpiece, a panel painting (often called The Last Judgement) by Rogier van der Weyden.
The Hospices de Beaune have numerous assets: the great Salle des pauvres (room of the poor) with its richly painted and carved ceiling, the Gothic chapel, the kitchen with a machine-operated rotisserie, and the old drugstore with its collections of earthenware and tin.
The November auction
Over the centuries, the Hospices de Beaune has also celebrated an outstanding wine heritage. This unique property has 85% of premier and vintage wines entrusted to 22 carefully selected winemakers.
Traditionally, these exceptional wines are auctioned off on the third Sunday of November. This is one of the most popular oenological events in the world!
In true Hospice tradition, the funds raised are donated to charitable causes and used to keep the institution running.
Address
Hospices Civiles de Beaune
Avenue Guigone de Salins
21200 Beaune