The Town Hall of Vernon, known locally as the Hôtel de ville de Vernon, stands as a majestic testament to the architectural and historical richness of this charming town in the Eure department of France. Located in the heart of Vernon, on Place Adolphe-Barette, this splendid building is just a stone's throw away from the Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, making it a central piece of Vernon's historical and cultural tapestry.
The current Town Hall of Vernon was constructed in 1895, under the auspices of Adolphe Barette, who was the first mayor to serve in this new edifice. The need for a new town hall arose in the mid-19th century when the former building, a two-story house on Rue Grande, opposite the Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, became impractical for the town's needs.
In 1858, the idea to build a new town hall took root, and the initial plans were drawn up by the city's architect, Joseph Louis Delbrouck. However, these plans did not come to fruition. It wasn't until 1892, after years of contemplation and several failed proposals, that a competition was organized by Mayor Adolphe Barette. The new town hall was to include a banquet hall, a justice of the peace, and a museum. The competition saw twelve finalists, but it was the Parisian architects Georges Debrie and Adolphe Henry who ultimately won the commission.
Construction began with the laying of the first stone in May 1894, and the building was officially inaugurated on September 10, 1895. Since then, the Town Hall of Vernon has stood as a symbol of the town's civic pride and historical continuity.
The Town Hall of Vernon is a stunning example of late 19th-century French architecture. The building's foundational structure is composed of Chérence stone for the base and Vernon limestone for the upper sections, some of which were repurposed from the old Sainte-Geneviève church. The ground floor features three central arcades, which add to the building's grandeur and accessibility.
The first floor is adorned with five large rectangular windows, each flanked by niches that were originally intended to house busts of Adolphe Barette and the Duke of Albuféra, though these niches remain empty to this day. A balcony, accessible through the three central windows, offers a commanding view of the square below.
One of the most striking features of the Town Hall is its curved pediment, which crowns the central section of the building. The Republican motto Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité is prominently displayed at the base of this pediment, underscoring the building's civic significance. The pavilion roof is topped with a belvedere and lantern, adding a touch of elegance and providing a panoramic view of the town.
The exterior staircase, made of stone and featuring 14 steps, is flanked by two caryatids that serve as lamp posts. These were donated by Pierre-Amédée Défontaine, a former municipal deputy and founder. At the rear of the building, a monumental fountain sculpted by Défontaine in 1899 features a nymph, which is listed in the general inventory of cultural heritage.
The interior of the Town Hall of Vernon is no less impressive than its exterior. Renowned sculptors Albert Miserey, Turpin, and Louis-Émile Décorchemont contributed to the building's monumental decor. The first floor houses a modern stained-glass window by Norman master glassmaker François Décorchemont, depicting the symbolic visit of Saint Louis in 1256.
Miserey and Turpin worked on the fireplace in the wedding hall, the sculpted caissons of the entrance hall's vault, the moldings, and the architectural consoles. The ceiling of the wedding hall is adorned with paintings by Charles Denet, representing local wine and cider production. Giandomenico Facchina's mosaics further enhance the hall's beauty.
The interior decoration and furnishings were completed in 1908, and although the bronze bust of Mayor Adolphe Barette by Miserey no longer exists, a plaster reproduction is preserved within the town hall.
Visitors to Vernon should not miss the opportunity to explore the Town Hall. Its rich history, architectural elegance, and artistic interior make it a fascinating destination. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Town Hall of Vernon offers a glimpse into the cultural and civic life of this picturesque French town.
As you stand before this magnificent building, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details and the stories they tell. From the grand arcades and the empty niches to the Republican motto and the elegant belvedere, the Town Hall of Vernon is a true architectural gem that continues to inspire and captivate all who visit.
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