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Palais de L'Isle

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Tolik
Tolik
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Palais de L'Isle

  • December 11, 2006
  • Rated 4 of 5 by Tolik from Tampa, Florida
Palais de L'Isle

The Palais de L'Isle (Palace on the Island) also called the "old prison" is Annecy’s oldest structure; it was built in the 12th century. The fortification is the symbol of Annecy and is among the most photographed monuments in France. Due to its triangular shape, the palace reminds the visitor of the prow of a ship anchored in the Thiou River. During the 12th century this former fortified house was the center of the first domain held by the De L'Isle family. Acquired by the De Geneve family in the 13th century, the fotress became later the residence of the Monthoux family. In 1355 Palais de L'Isle became a minting workshop; it was later acquired by Janus of Savoy. In the 16th century it became a government building, and after 1713 the palace housed the Genevese judicature, Land Registry, and prison. The Revolutionary Authorities turned it into the City Prison in 1864. During the Second World War, it was used by the Nazis as a prison for resistance fighters.

Of course, the prison is now a museum. It provides an interesting visit, with some very small rooms and cells to explore. There is a dungeon complete shackles and vintage graffiti. There is no guided tours available in English - request a free English museum guide. Visiting the dungeons and seeing the thickness of the bars will be amazingly chilling experience.

From journal A Gem of the French Alps

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