Hôpital Saint-Jacques
Explore the historical Hôpital Saint-Jacques, a former maternity hospital with a rich past, featuring museums and a park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for park strolls
Hôpital Saint-Jacques
Best Time
Pleasant weather for park strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historical Hôpital Saint-Jacques, a former maternity hospital with a rich past, featuring museums and a park.
"The Anesthesia museum and the apothecary are worth visiting and preserving."
Visit the Museums
Don't miss the Anesthesia Museum and Apothecary for a deep dive into medical history. :museum:
Enjoy the Park
Take time to relax and wander through the beautiful park grounds. 🏞️
Quick Facts
Rating
3.6 · 42 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Anesthesia Museum
Explore the fascinating history of anesthesia and its development within the hospital's walls.
Apothecary
Step back in time to see the preserved apothecary, showcasing historical medical preparations.
Hospital Park
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the charming park, a green oasis within the historic site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into History
Exploring the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit the Museums
Don't miss the Anesthesia Museum and Apothecary for a deep dive into medical history. :museum:
Enjoy the Park
Take time to relax and wander through the beautiful park grounds. 🏞️
Check Renovation Status
Some areas may be under renovation, so check for access before your visit. 🚧
Kind Staff
Expect a warm welcome from the kind and attentive staff. ❤️
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit the Museums
Don't miss the Anesthesia Museum and Apothecary for a deep dive into medical history. :museum:
Enjoy the Park
Take time to relax and wander through the beautiful park grounds. 🏞️
Check Renovation Status
Some areas may be under renovation, so check for access before your visit. 🚧
Kind Staff
Expect a warm welcome from the kind and attentive staff. ❤️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance of Hôpital Saint-Jacques, particularly its preserved Anesthesia Museum and Apothecary, and the tranquil park. The kindness of the staff is frequently noted, though some express sadness over the demolition of parts of the site for new developments.
"The old maternity hospital saw the birth of 100,000 Besançon residents. You won't see it anymore; the demolition is complete:
A clear path for the new neighborhood and the large library to emerge in a few months, preserving the old buildings brought out of the shadows as well as the history—or rather, THE Histories—of the place!
The anesthesia museum and the apothecary are worth visiting and preserving."
Gé Lyet
"Beautiful old buildings open to the public, and renovations are underway in the courtyards for other future uses...
One of the finest hospitals in the kingdom... it was at the request of Antoine Pierre de Grammont, Archbishop of Besançon, that the Saint Jacques Hospital was built between 1686 and 1703. At that time, it became a general hospital by letters patent of King Louis XIV."
Robert SENNERICH
"Lovely park within the hospital, although the premises seem a little dated...
In any case, I was very well received and directed by the kind woman at the admissions desk. And the nursing staff were all kind!"
Alaina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hôpital Saint-Jacques is located in Besançon. Public transport options include local buses and trams. Parking may be limited, so consider public transit for easier access.
Yes, Hôpital Saint-Jacques is generally accessible by Besançon's public transport network. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient routes.
Parking near historic sites can be challenging. While some street parking might be available, it's often best to check for nearby public parking garages or opt for public transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park and exterior grounds is generally free. However, specific museums like the Anesthesia Museum or Apothecary may have separate admission fees or require booking.
Opening hours can vary, especially as renovations are ongoing. The park is often accessible during daylight hours, but museum hours should be checked in advance.
Information on guided tours is not widely available. It's best to inquire directly with local tourism offices or the hospital administration for any scheduled tours.
While it was historically a hospital, significant parts have undergone demolition for new developments. Some historical elements and museums remain accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the Anesthesia Museum, the Apothecary, and a lovely park. The beautiful old buildings, even those undergoing renovation, offer a glimpse into its past.
The park offers a pleasant space for families to walk. The museums might be more engaging for older children or adults interested in history.
Photography is generally permitted in public areas like the park. For museum interiors, it's advisable to check their specific photography policies.
Built between 1686 and 1703 at the request of the Archbishop of Besançon, it became a general hospital by letters patent of King Louis XIV and saw the birth of many Besançon residents.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no specific dining facilities mentioned within the historical site itself. Visitors may need to find cafes or restaurants in the surrounding areas of Besançon.
Picnics are often allowed in public parks, but it's good practice to check local regulations. Be sure to clean up after yourself to maintain the beauty of the grounds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit