Hôtel de Ville d'Aire-sur-la-Lys
Grand Place, Aire-sur-la-lys
- Pas-de-Calais
- Hauts-de-France
In 1713, Aire-sur-la-Lys was definitively attached to the French Crown. The city is in ruins, Louis XIV orders the construction of a new City Hall. But he has no intention of spending any money. He levied an exceptional tax on beer to finance the construction of the new building as well as a new belfry. The project was entrusted to Heroguel: King’s architect at Arras. Begun in 1716, the work lasted until 1721\. The majestic building is composed of three levels. At the bottom, two central doors provide access. The intermediate level is pierced by eleven openings, one of which overlooks a balcony. Finally, a pediment dominates the whole. Among other elements symbolizing justice, a head of Apollo represents the Sun King... The ensemble displays, prestige, order, and power of Louis XIV and the Crown of France.
Pôle d'Information Touristique d'Aire-sur-la-Lys