Dukes’ Palace

Here, you are in front of the city’s landmark! If there’s one thing Dijon is famous for, it’s its incredible Dukes’ Palace. Incredible for its architecture and imposing dimensions, but also and above all for its history. It was in this palace shaped that the powerful Dukes of Burgundy sat. Construction work began in the 14th century, before which it had been a simple ducal castle. It was Philip the Bold, the first Duke of Burgundy from the House of Valois, who rebuilt it and began to give it the shape of a sumptuous palace. He wanted to rival the dukes of Berry, Anjou and Orléans. The three following dukes enlarged, modified and improved it, turning it into an exceptional palace. When the last Duke of Burgundy died, it passed into the hands of the Habsburgs, and then became the Logis du Roi, the residence in which the Kings of France stayed when they came to Burgundy. Throughout this period, it was further enlarged and redecorated, revealing the magnificent Renaissance architecture displayed today. Its halls were each more beautiful than the others. The tower that rises at the centre above the palace, is the Philippe the Good tower. Symbolising the striking power of the Dukes of Burgundy, it stands 46 metres high,and dominates the city. A true demonstration of the superiority and immensity of the duchy’s power. At the time, it was to some extent considered a provocation to the Kingdom of France, and proof that Burgundy was also able to build towers that high. The tower is one of the oldest remnants of the palace, built under the orders of Philip the Good in the 15th century. The square where you are standing was laid out by King Louis XIV’s architect, Jules Hardouin-Mansart, in 1685. It was formerly known as Royal Square, but changed names throughout its history. It went from Place d’Armes to Imperial square, Marechal Pétain square, and finally Liberation square, when Dijon was liberated from German occupation in 1944. This square is now the main gathering place for the people of Dijon. Here, you can see the magnificent Dukes’ Palace in its entirety. The palace now houses the town hall, the municipal archives, the tourist office and the town’s Fine Arts Museum. You can visit the magnificent halls of the palace on any day, except for Tuesdays. For a few euros, you can also climb the Philippe the Good Tower to enjoy a beautiful view of Dijon and the surrounding area. A view you’ll have to earn, as, you’ll first need to climb the 316 steps of the spiral staircase.