INTRODUCTION

Charity as a concept is deeply rooted in the moral requirements of religions. From the early Middle Ages, establishments embodying this concept began appearing throughout Europe. They were called hospices. Initially, they offered shelter to those in need and then, as time went by, they welcomed the sick and began treating them. Religious hospital orders often took over the running of these buildings which become hospitals, caring for the body and above all the soul, through religious services and confession. The term “Hôtel-Dieu” (God’s mansion) was used for many years to signify this duality between the corporal and the spiritual. As medical knowledge increased, so did the care provided by staff and the remedies made in apothecaries.

Hospitals are great historical sources, reflecting social and medical developments. The one in Nuits-Saint-Georges is no exception: its history is intertwined with that of the town. This exhibition recounts its evolution, its patients, its doctors and the nursing nuns from the first hospices through to the Saint-Laurent Hospital.

After more than 300 years of service, in September 2018 the hospital moved out of the historic buildings and into the new, more modern premises located a little further along Rue Henri Challand. The old hospital building is now being renovated to it can be put to a new use.