The Stains Castle, of which only a few outbuildings remain today, was built to serve several noble families between the 17th and 18th centuries. By the mid-18th century, the stables and coach houses completed this expansive estate, designed with a distinctive horseshoe-shaped layout typical of such outbuildings. During the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, the castle was severely damaged, and only the stables survived the bombings that destroyed the main buildings.
By the late 19th century, the Stains town council was in search of new premises, as their existing offices were considered too cramped. In 1883, they purchased the old stables and outbuildings of the castle, knowing they could renovate the space to serve as a proper town hall.
Architect Villebesseys was entrusted with this transformation, and the works began shortly after the purchase. By 1889, the renovated building officially became the new town hall. The former central stable was repurposed to house the city council chamber and the wedding hall, while the side wings were allocated for various administrative and logistical functions.
Even today, the unique shape of the building stands out: it retains a horseshoe-shaped layout, characteristic of structures originally designed as stables or storage sheds. The main façade, with its large neoclassical openings and a glass gallery added during renovations, contrasts sharply with the typical image we have of a town hall.
In 1911, further renovations expanded the space once again, and in 1928, the building was officially designated as a Historic Monument, acknowledging its full cultural significance.
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Location
Stains Town Hall
6 Avenue Paul Vaillant Couturier
93240 Stains
Official website
stains.fr
