Description
The Hôtel-Dieu is a former hospital in the town of Beaune, which was converted into a museum in 1971. It was founded in 1443 to help people after the Hundred Years’ War and is now part of the Hospices Civils de Beaune. In addition to the museum—which offers insights into the early days of nursing care—the complex also houses a retirement home.
The building was expanded over the years, though its two main wings, the north and south wings, date back to the 15th century. The hospital was richly furnished with tapestries and other pieces of furniture. The most impressive artwork is displayed in the "Saint Louis" hall—the Last Judgment Polyptych by Rogier van der Weyden.
From the very beginning, the hospice was well equipped and lavishly furnished thanks to numerous donations from local citizens. For this reason, it was often referred to as a "palace for the poor." However, many important improvements—such as heating in all patient rooms—could not be implemented.
The Hospital Today
Today, the hospital is mainly financed through wine sales. Each year, barrels of Burgundy wine are auctioned off, setting the benchmark for Burgundy wine prices for the entire year. The museum offers a glimpse into early modern nursing and medical care.
How to get there
The Hôtel-Dieu is located in the heart of Beaune, a town in Burgundy that forms the center of the Côte de Beaune wine-growing region.