The Palais de l’Isle in Annecy is a classified historical monument and a center for exhibitions and interpretation of architecture and heritage. It is located in the old prison district. Throughout the year, there are temporary exhibitions on various thematic artists. This building, also called Les Vieilles Prisons, is built on a rocky island in the Thiou. Of the fortified house type, it is first mentioned in 1325 as a prison from the Middle Ages.
The different uses of the Palais de l’Isle
In the 14th century, it became a mint for the accounts of Geneva. Count Amadeus III received from Emperor Charles IV “the right to mint gold and silver on his lands.” Then in the 16th century, it was used as a Court of Justice. Later, it resumed its role as a prison until 1864. At that date, it was used as an old age asylum.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the building served as a drawing school for stone masons and as a gymnasium. Having become unsanitary, the municipal council of Annecy considered its demolition, but it was saved by the intervention of André Theuriet, a novelist, and Charles Suisse, an inspector of historical monuments, which led to its classification on February 16, 1900. It was rehabilitated between 1983 and 1985.
The city of Annecy completely renovated it in 2018.
Practical information
The duration of the visit is one hour, noting the many stairs for people with reduced mobility.
It is surely the most photographed monument in Annecy from the Périère bridge. It has also delighted amateur painters since the mid-19th century.
The famous dungeons of the palais de l’Île show the precarious conditions of detention in the Middle Ages, as the prison was surrounded by water at the same level as the prisoners’ cells. The Chapel of the Palais de L’Île is part of the visit as well as the hearing rooms. It currently houses a center for the interpretation of architecture and heritage that offers temporary exhibitions. Its visit is included in the ticket price. During the Annecy Paysage Festival, the site is often used to display contemporary art works nearby, in the Thiou canal.
Right next to the entrance, you can enjoy the Café des Arts for a drink. This establishment is a bit away from the busiest areas. The decor consists of works by various artists. Quality light meals are also offered. You can also eat in the many restaurants nearby that offer the culinary specialties of Savoie.
Hours
- Open every day except Tuesday
- From October 1 to May 31 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- From June 1 to September 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rates and subscriptions
- Rates: €3.80, reduced child rate: €2, free for under 12s
- Combined ticket for Museum Castle and Palais de l’Isle: €7.20
- Annual pass: €20
Information and reservations
- Information
- 04 50 33 87 30
- musees@annecy.fr
