Ancien Hôpital Général (Former General Hospital), Carcassonne
The Former General Hospital in Carcassonne represents a significant chapter in the city’s history. Established in 1648, it was Carcassonne’s first health center and served as a model for organized medical care. This role was solidified in 1686 when Louis XIV mandated the creation of such establishments across the kingdom. Its development highlights the evolution of healthcare and architecture in the region.
In the latter half of the 18th century, the hospital underwent a significant transformation. Its current facade, featuring a monumental gate and a statue of St. Vincent de Paul, was constructed, showcasing the architectural trends of the time. After the French Revolution, the facility transitioned into a hospice, reflecting broader changes in societal needs and the function of such institutions.
Today, the building serves as a residence center near the Old Bridge, continuing its legacy of care and community service in a modern context. Its enduring presence reminds visitors of Carcassonne's commitment to both heritage and progress.
In the latter half of the 18th century, the hospital underwent a significant transformation. Its current facade, featuring a monumental gate and a statue of St. Vincent de Paul, was constructed, showcasing the architectural trends of the time. After the French Revolution, the facility transitioned into a hospice, reflecting broader changes in societal needs and the function of such institutions.
Today, the building serves as a residence center near the Old Bridge, continuing its legacy of care and community service in a modern context. Its enduring presence reminds visitors of Carcassonne's commitment to both heritage and progress.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Carcassonne. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Download The GPSmyCity App
Ancien Hôpital Général (Former General Hospital) on Map
Sight Name: Ancien Hôpital Général (Former General Hospital)
Sight Location: Carcassonne, France (See walking tours in Carcassonne)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Carcassonne, France (See walking tours in Carcassonne)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Carcassonne, France
Create Your Own Walk in Carcassonne
Creating your own self-guided walk in Carcassonne is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Carcassonne Introduction Walking Tour
Nestled in the picturesque region of Occitanie in southern France is the captivating city of Carcassonne.
The name "Carcassonne" is believed to have originated from the Gallic word "Carsac," referring to a fort settlement that was later fortified by the Romans who occupied the area in the 1st century BC.
A legend suggests another, more colorful version of the name,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
The name "Carcassonne" is believed to have originated from the Gallic word "Carsac," referring to a fort settlement that was later fortified by the Romans who occupied the area in the 1st century BC.
A legend suggests another, more colorful version of the name,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Medieval City of Carcassonne Walking Tour
A pig full of wheat was thrown off the battlements. The lady commanding the fortress was a Muslim. The besieging Christians knew Muslims do not eat pig. What is more, the defenders must have plenty of food if they could feed wheat to a pig and throw it over the walls. The siege had lasted five years. The attackers were starving. They left.
Many stories are told about the fortified medieval... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles
Many stories are told about the fortified medieval... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles