Préfecture de la Haute-Savoie (Prefecture of Haute Savoie), Annecy

The Prefecture of Haute Savoie (Prefecture de la Haute-Savoie) is a historic gem located on Avenue d'Albigny in Annecy, near the serene shores of Lake Annecy and surrounded by a picturesque 1.7-hectare wooded park. This elegant Neo-classical structure, designed by Lyon-based architect Leon Charvet, stands as a testament to the architectural finesse of the 19th century, blending elements inspired by the private mansions and chateaux of the Ancien Regime rather than the contemporary Second Empire style.

Constructed between 1862 and 1866, the building's H-shaped layout spans 46 meters in width and 44 meters in depth. Its façade, crafted from rubble stone coated in white lime and accentuated with Seyssel stone at its corners, reflects the refinement typical of the Louis XIII style. The structure is composed of a central body and two side wings, framing an impressive courtyard of honor. A wrought iron gate and entrance pavilions made of brick and stone complete the stately exterior.

Initially built to house the prefecture and the headquarters of the departmental council, the building has served as the administrative hub for the Haute-Savoie department since its establishment following Savoy's annexation to France in 1860. Annecy, the capital of Haute-Savoie, was chosen as the site for this vital civic center, underscoring the region's administrative significance.

Recognized for its historical and architectural value, the Prefecture of Haute-Savoie was officially listed as a historical monument on March 17, 2022. Today, the building not only represents the administrative heart of the department but also offers a glimpse into the region's rich history, seamlessly blending its functional role with its cultural heritage.