PRÉFECTURE / HOTEL DU DEPARTEMENT

From the 12th century until 1789, this site housed the palace of the Count-Bishops of Mende . In 1804, this grand building was assigned to a brand new institution: the Prefecture . At that time, the building was attached to the cathedral. The interior was notably decorated with ceilings painted by Besnard in the 17th century. Unfortunately, almost the entire palace was destroyed by fire in 1888. The main gate, the only remaining element of the former palace, is listed as a Historical Monument. Reconstruction was entrusted to the departmental architect Germer Durand , who chose a rather restrained neoclassical style, with only the reddish limestone quoins adding rhythm to the building. It was during these works that the Rue de la Rovère was created, thus separating the former palace from the cathedral. The building still houses the Prefecture (prefect's residence) and the departmental council building since 1982. The administrative and public reception areas of these two structures are located in other premises in the city. " The current prefecture consists of a main pavilion and a second one to the east. The door is made of oak and walnut. It consists of two movable leaves and, in one of them, a wicket gate for ordinary access. Sculpted motifs represent two lion heads, foliage... " (Mérimée database - Historic Monuments).

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