In the heart of Mont-de-Marsan, the Prefecture hotel of Landes, known locally as Hôtel de préfecture des Landes, stands as a testament to neoclassical architecture and historical significance. This grand administrative building, located at 24 rue Victor-Hugo, serves as both the residence and the workplace of the prefect of the Landes department.
The story of the Prefecture hotel of Landes begins with a decree from the Constituent Assembly on February 15, 1790, which established Mont-de-Marsan as the chief town of the department, surpassing Dax and Tartas. The position of prefect was introduced in France on February 17, 1800, with Alexandre Méchin becoming the first prefect of Landes. Initially, he resided in the Hôtel d'Artigues, a place soon deemed unsuitable for its purpose.
The need for a dedicated administrative building was championed by Jean-Marie Valentin-Duplantier, who became the prefect in 1802. His persistence paid off when he convinced Napoleon I of the necessity for new governmental edifices during the emperor’s visit in April 1808. Napoleon, envisioning Mont-de-Marsan as a strategic stopover post his anticipated victory in Spain, signed a decree in Bayonne on July 12, 1808, mandating the construction of the Prefecture in the former convent of Sainte-Claire.
The architectural plans for the Prefecture hotel of Landes were crafted by David-François Panay and Augustin Arthaud, with construction spanning from 1808 to 1818. The first stone was laid by Baron Jean-Marie Valentin-Duplantier on September 29, 1810. The building was completed in 1818, with Baron d'Haussez being the first prefect to occupy the premises.
The Prefecture is a fine example of the neoclassical style popular during the First French Empire. The façade is adorned with a portico supported by four Ionic columns, lending an air of grandeur and stability. The two wings of the building feature bronze doors decorated with local pine cones, known as pignes, adding a regional touch to its elegance.
A notable feature is the iron footbridge constructed in 1844, which connects the Prefecture to its gardens across the Douze River. This bridge, supported by masonry abutments from the old May de Diù bridge, adds historical depth to the site. The Prefecture has remained largely unchanged since its inception, save for some interior redecorations during the Second Empire.
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Throughout its history, the Prefecture hotel of Landes has hosted various distinguished guests. In August 1828, the Duchess of Berry stopped by on her way to the Pyrenees, celebrated with a grand ball and dinner. On October 6, 1913, President Raymond Poincaré visited Mont-de-Marsan en route to Spain, accompanied by prominent political figures of the time.
One of the most memorable visits was by General Leclerc on July 3, 1945. He inspected the 2nd Far East Battalion training center and paraded from the Prefecture to the town hall, greeted by enthusiastic crowds. These visits underscore the Prefecture's role as a focal point for political and social events in the region.
Visitors to Mont-de-Marsan should not miss the opportunity to admire the Prefecture hotel of Landes. Its neoclassical architecture offers a glimpse into the historical and cultural fabric of the region. The surrounding area, including the nearby Hôtel Planté, which houses the Departmental Council of Landes, adds to the rich tapestry of governmental and historical sites.
The Prefecture's gardens, once linked by the historic footbridge, now form part of the Jean Rameau Park, offering a serene escape amid the administrative hustle and bustle. This park, with its lush greenery and tranquil pathways, provides a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.
The Prefecture hotel of Landes is more than just an administrative building; it is a symbol of the region's historical legacy and its enduring connection to French governance. Its walls have witnessed countless events and changes, standing resilient through time as a beacon of the Landes department's past and present.
In conclusion, the Prefecture hotel of Landes invites visitors to delve into its rich history and architectural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, this remarkable building in Mont-de-Marsan offers a captivating journey through time and tradition.
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