Amiens’City Hall

Here you are, standing on one of Amiens’ central squares, right in front of the impressive City Hall. The building you see today, with its distinctive U-shaped design, was completed in the 19th century and restored the following century after being damaged during the First World War. But Amiens has had a City Hall for much longer! In the 12th century, the city broke free from feudal control and became an autonomous commune. Though still part of the Kingdom of France, it was now led by a mayor—called a “mayeur” in this region. Over the following centuries, the mayor and his councillors—called aldermen at the time—worked from various communal buildings, including a private mansion. The first official City Hall was completed here in 1600, built on the site of an ancient Gallo-Roman amphitheatre that was still visible back then. In 1756, that first building was replaced by a Neoclassical structure made of brick and stone, forming the central part you see today, including the main entrance. Starting in 1856, the two side wings were added, along with several extensions, creating the building as it appears today. Now, it proudly overlooks the pedestrian-friendly Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, where locals often gather for various events and celebrations