Contemplate for a moment this imposing structure before you. This is the H\u00f4tel de Ville de Villeurbanne. It is more than just a city hall. It stands as a symbol of Villeurbanne’s identity.
Let’s delve into the story of this remarkable building. The H\u00f4tel de Ville de Villeurbanne was built between 1931 and 1934. It was designed by architect Robert Giroud. The H\u00f4tel de Ville stands on Place du Dr Lazare Goujon.
Villeurbanne needed a new town hall. The old one was too small and too far from the town center. Mayor Lazare Goujon wanted a modern town hall. It would help Villeurbanne keep its identity. Lyon wanted to annex Villeurbanne. The new H\u00f4tel de Ville was part of a plan to prevent this.
Giroud’s design was chosen from 12 entries. He was a winner of the Grand Prix de Rome. The H\u00f4tel de Ville’s design reflects the socialist ideals of the time. The building is made of reinforced concrete. It showcases the Art Deco style. Édouard Herriot, the mayor of Lyon, opened it on June 17, 1934.
The H\u00f4tel de Ville de Villeurbanne has a symmetrical facade. It features 15 bays. Full-height fluted columns decorate the bays. A belfry rises 65 meters above the building.
Inside the H\u00f4tel de Ville are notable rooms. The Salle de Mariages is a wedding room. It has an organ designed by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll’s factory. The Salle des Commissions features a fine fireplace.
During World War II, the H\u00f4tel de Ville was a site of resistance. Local fighters used it as a command post in 1944. They fought against the German occupation. The Germans regained control briefly. But the 1st Free French Division liberated the town soon after.
The H\u00f4tel de Ville de Villeurbanne has undergone changes over the years. It was modernized in the late 1960s. An annex was added in 1990. The facades were restored in 1973 and 2000.
The H\u00f4tel de Ville is a protected monument. It was listed as a monument historique in 1991. This protects its facades, roofs, halls, and the wedding room. It also protects the fireplace in the commissions room. In 2003, it received the Patrimoine XXe siècle label. This recognizes its architectural qualities.
The H\u00f4tel de Ville’s design is both modern and monumental. Its strict symmetry reflects the architectural style of the 1930s. Neoclassical elements add to its grandeur. The building symbolizes the municipality’s strength.
Jean Fleury described the H\u00f4tel de Ville’s interior as simple and clear. He noted the absence of endless corridors and hidden spaces. Light and public view penetrate without hindrance. The interior spaces feature clean geometric lines. The grand central staircase connects the three levels.
Today, the H\u00f4tel de Ville de Villeurbanne continues to serve its community. It stands as a testament to Villeurbanne’s history. It represents the city’s commitment to its unique identity. As you stand here, remember the vision and resilience that shaped this landmark. The H\u00f4tel de Ville remains a vital part of Villeurbanne.