Exterior view

The plans for a town hall in Arles probably passed through several hands, but the final design was probably due to Hardouin-Mansart. In 1673 he visited Languedoc, apparently sent there by Jean-Baptiste Colbert, chief minister to Louis XIV, to inspect work on the Canal des Deux-Mers. On the way he produced a design for the H�tel de Ville (1673–75) at Arles, which was inspired by Louis Le Vau’s recent work at Versailles. The final design with quoin-work, projecting avant-corps, attic, and terrace roof resembles Versailles.

This civic building illustrates the growing importance of the bourgeoisie in French cities. It also illustrates the influence of Italian classically-derived architecture. The five-bay structure has a logical elevation of three stories, a flat roof, more characteristic of Italian Renaissance architecture than French buildings with their steep roofs. The central bay has an impressive pediment and sculpture is used to accent various areas of the building.

The photo shows the fa�ade.