(see p. [23])
THE PALAIS DE RIHOUR AND THE RUINS OF THE HÔTEL DE VILLE
The Palais de Rihour
Built in 1457-1462, this palace was the residence of Philippe le Bon, Duke of Burgundy. Only an octagonal turret, the guard-room and the chapel of brick and white stone remain. The Hôtel de Ville was erected on its site.
The low guard-room, in which the town records are kept, is divided in the middle by three polygonal columns unequally interspaced. The stone staircase with ribbed vaulting and graceful ornamentation, was formerly the grand staircase. Transferred to its present position, it now leads to the chapel known as the "Salle du Conclave," where the magistrates of Lille sat until 1789.
To the right of the chapel is a brick building, the façade of which is divided by two similar gables. Jutting out at the corner is an octagonal turret containing two small vaulted chambers. Above is a third room with timber-work ceiling, known as the "Oratory of the Duchess." An opening in the wall communicates with the chapel, and through it the choir is visible. From this room, which is reached by a spiral staircase of stone inside the turret, it is possible to hear the service without being seen.
THE RUE DE PARIS: in the background: THE THEATRE
and THE NEW BOURSE