Yes, that 16th-century façade you’re admiring, with its elegant mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, is truly a gem! As its name suggests, this is the Hôtel des Créneaux — Orléans’ very first city hall. Over the centuries, the building has worn many hats: it became a courthouse during the Revolution, later housed the city’s Museum of Fine Arts, and since 1989, it has served as the Music Conservatory. Just behind the door, you’ll find the “Passage du Saloir,” or Salt Store Passage — a name that harks back to the time when salt was stored in the attic and its sale managed directly by the city. The building is now officially listed as a historical monument, and it stands as a proud witness to Orléans’ rich civic history.