Hospice of Charity

The Hospice de la Charite

The Beaune audio-guided tour stops you before the Hospice de la Charite, a discreet place but deeply rooted in the town's history of solidarity. Founded in the 17th century by a couple of benefactors, it bears witness to a long tradition of welcoming the most destitute.

A place of solidarity

Founded in 1645 by Antoine Rousseau and Barbe Deslandes, the Hospice de la Charite was intended to welcome the elderly, the poor and orphans, in a period still marked by epidemics and great hardship. Unlike the famous Hotel-Dieu, intended for the sick, it was devoted to welcoming able-bodied destitute people, particularly women. The complex is organised around an inner courtyard, in the sobriety proper to this kind of establishment.

What there is to see

The Hospice de la Charite, with its inner courtyard and plain buildings, illustrates the hospital and charitable history of Beaune, an extension of that of the Hospices. The place, which today continues a vocation of welcome and care, can be seen from the outside with respect, keeping in mind the spirit of charity that presided over its foundation.

Practical information

The Hospice de la Charite is in the centre of Beaune. As the building continues a function of welcome and care, it is not a tourist visit site: its facade and entrance can be seen from the street, with discretion and respect for the place. To learn more about the town's hospital history, the Hotel-Dieu offers a complete tour.

When was the Hospice de la Charite founded ?

It was founded in 1645 by Antoine Rousseau and Barbe Deslandes, to welcome the elderly, the poor and orphans.

What is the difference from the Hotel-Dieu ?

The Hotel-Dieu cared for the sick, while the Hospice de la Charite mainly welcomed able-bodied destitute people, particularly women.