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Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne: A Journey Through Burgundy's History

Explore Dijon's Palais des Ducs, a majestic landmark blending Gothic and Neoclassical architecture, housing art treasures and centuries of Burgundian history.

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The Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, located in Dijon, France, is a stunning architectural complex that showcases centuries of Burgundian history. Once home to the Dukes of Burgundy, it now houses the city hall and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

A brief summary to Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne

Local tips

  • Take advantage of the free admission to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed within the palace, to explore its extensive art collection.
  • Climb the Tour Philippe le Bon for panoramic views of Dijon and the surrounding Burgundy countryside; book your visit through the Dijon Tourist Office.
  • Wander through the palace courtyards, such as the Cour de Flore and Cour de Bar, to admire the architecture and historical details.
  • Visit the Tourist Information Office, located within the Palais, for maps, information, and guided tour bookings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Palais des Ducs is located in the heart of Dijon's city center, making it easily accessible on foot from many points. From Place de la Libération, the palace is directly accessible. From the Dijon train station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. Walk through the Porte Guillaume monumental arch and along Rue de la Liberté, a pedestrian shopping street, to reach the Palais.

  • Public Transport

    Dijon's Divia public transport network provides access to the Palais. While there is no direct public transport from the train station to Place de la Libération, you can take the T1 tram two stops from the Gare to the Darcy stop. From there, walk through the Porte Guillaume and along Rue de la Liberté to the Palais. A single tram ticket costs €1.40.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Dijon, but cannot be hailed on the street. It is best to call a taxi company for service. A taxi ride from the Dijon train station to the Palais des Ducs will cost approximately €10-€15.

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Discover more about Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne

The Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, or Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy, stands as a remarkable testament to Dijon's rich political and artistic heritage. The palace's oldest sections date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, reflecting a Gothic architectural style. However, much of what visitors see today was constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries, showcasing a neoclassical design. The palace also features the Tour Philippe le Bon, a 15th-century tower that visitors can climb for panoramic city views. Originally a simple castle in the 1st century, the palace evolved into the seat of the Duchy of Burgundy. Philip the Bold initiated significant rebuilding, and subsequent dukes expanded the palace, resulting in the impressive structure that exists today. For just over a century, from 1463 to 1577, the dukes increased Burgundy's power and prestige, establishing Dijon as an important center. The palace complex is organized around three courtyards: the Cour d'Honneur, the Cour de Flore, and the Cour de Bar. Facing the Palais from Place de la Libération, the city hall occupies the left side, while the Musée des Beaux-Arts is on the right. The Musée des Beaux-Arts showcases Burgundian art from the Middle Ages and beyond, including the tombs of John the Fearless and Philip the Bold. Visitors can also explore the Chapelle des Élus, a small chapel tucked away in a corner of the Palais.

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