Visiting the City Hall, Cannes, France: gracious, Neo-Classical building dating from 1876
A serene, 19th century, municipal frontage
This gracious building, which houses the City Hall (French: Hôtel de ville ) of Cannes, is one of the principal municipal structures in the Alpes Maritimes department, of the part of southern France known as the Côte d'Azur in French but often in English as the French Riviera.
Some history and features
The City Hall dates from 1876, a period when the city was expanding, the tourist industry in the region having already been given much impetus by frequent visitors such a Lord Brougham and others.
The building's design draws upon plans by architect Louis Durand. Subsequently, the work was completed under the supervision of architect Louis Hourlier. The structure was executed in Neo-Classical style, with which Architect Durand was closely identified. The ornate frontage of the three storey building includes low-relief coats of arms, and, at the attic level, caryatid sculptures.
The interior of the building was significantly altered in 1888. Noted features of the interior include staircases on a large scale.
A war memorial is situated close to the main entrance of the building.
The City Hall is located at Place Cornut-Gentille (1) not far from the historic, tree-lined Boulevard de la Croisette .
Note
(1) The public square is named for Bernard Cornut-Gentille (1909-1992), long-serving mayor of Cannes remembered for enhancing the Boulevard de la Croisette , government minister who served under President Charles de Gaulle, and Ambassador.
Also worth seeing
In Cannes itself there are many noteworthy buildings, which include the Hôtel Carlton, the Hôtel Martinez, and the Palais Miramar; Le Suquet, the old quarter, and the Old Port (French: Vieux-Port ) are very picturesque. Rue d'Antibes is known for its quality shopping.
Antibes (distance: 13 kilometres) is a much visited Mediterranean resort with a 16th century fort.
Vallauris (distance: 7.7 kilometres) is noted for its well established ceramics industry, and associations with artist Pablo Picasso.
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How to get there: Delta Airlines flies direct from New York to Nice, France (Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur ), the nearest large airport to Cannes , and where car rental is available. The French railroad company SNCF maintains services to Cannes from Downtown Nice. Please be aware that some facilities may be withdrawn, without notice. For up to date information, please check with the airline or your travel agent. You are advised to consult with appropriate, consular sources regarding border crossing regulations which may apply to citizens of certain nationalities.
MJFenn is an independent travel writer based in Ontario, Canada.
Other of my hubpages may also be of interest
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