City Hall

Tours town hall

On place Jean Jaures stands the imposing town hall of Tours, a striking stop on the Tours audio-guided tour. Built at the end of the nineteenth century and inaugurated in 1904, it looks more like a palace than a mere administrative building.

Victor Laloux again

The building is also the work of Victor Laloux, the architect of the station. It was built between 1896 and 1904. A surprising detail: when Montreal city hall was restored after the 1922 fire, the roof of Tours town hall served as the model for the reconstruction.

What to see

The facade impresses with its male torsos bearing the weight of the city on their shoulders. Look up at the clock that crowns it, framed by two caryatids symbolising day and night. Two reclining figures represent the Loire and the Cher. On the wings, allegories evoke courage, strength, education and vigilance.

Practical information

The town hall is on place Jean Jaures, in the heart of Tours. Visiting the interior depends on the municipal programme; check depending on the season with the town hall.

When was the town hall built ?

It was built between 1896 and 1904 to the designs of Victor Laloux.

What is the link with Montreal ?

Its roof served as a model during the restoration of Montreal city hall after the 1922 fire.