Groslot House

You’re now standing in front of the stunning Groslot House, built in the 16th century by Mr. Groslot himself, who served as the king’s bailiff. That meant he was the king’s local representative, there to remind the bishops, lords, and town officials who was really in charge. So, it makes sense that he wanted a home that reflected his status. And he got one — grand enough to host royal guests like Charles IX and Catherine de Medici. Later, during the French Revolution, this magnificent mansion was transformed into the town hall, a role it held all the way up until 1981. It’s been a listed historic monument since 1862 and is now open to the public, free of charge. Step inside and you’ll find a treasure trove of beautifully preserved decor: carved leather furniture, ornate coffered ceilings, heavy tapestries, detailed moldings, and classic paintings. One of the most striking is by the artist Pierre Dupuis — it shows the final moments of young King François II, who died right here of meningitis. Fun — or slightly grim — fact: his chief surgeon, the famous Ambroise Paré, wanted to save him by performing a trepanation. Yes, that’s the procedure where they drill a hole into the skull to relieve pressure on the brain! Sounds horrifying, but it’s actually the oldest surgical technique known to man — archaeologists have found Neolithic skulls with trepanation holes, and some of those patients survived! Sadly, François II wasn’t so lucky. After his death, his heart was placed in Orléans Cathedral. As you head down the steps, you’ll notice a bronze statue of Joan of Arc — serene, standing tall and thoughtful. It was sculpted by none other than Princess Marie of Orléans. Yes, you heard that right — a royal sculptor! And a talented one, too. This bronze piece, dated 1841, is a copy of the original marble version she made at Versailles. Her father, King Louis-Philippe, gifted it to the city in thanks for the heartfelt condolences he received after her passing.