Préfecture de Lille (Lille Prefecture), Lille

The Préfecture de Lille is an architectural complex that consists of a main building with a ceremonial courtyard and a park, and two more wings. In front of the main edifice, built in hard limestone, there is a beautiful fountain. The architectural style is Classical, with a lot of allegorical figures on the pediments.

Overall, the complex was built throughout the period from 1865 to 1905. The author of the project was the local architect Charles Marteau. The sculptural pediments were made by Félix Huidiez, and the garden at the rear, added after the buildings were completed in 1874, enclosed by a high brick wall with stone chaining, was created by the landscape architect Georges Aumont (the author of many parks in Lille and Roubaix). In 1905, further modifications and adjustments were made by the departmental architect Léonce Hainez.

The actual location, formerly occupied by the city fortifications (demolished in 1865), now overlooking the Palais des Beaux-Arts (built twenty years later), marks the junction of the Old Town of Lille and the new districts annexed in 1858.

The premises, classically arranged in an “H plan”, were conceived as multifunctional, comprising the Prefect's apartment, offices, and halls for receiving distinguished guests. There are also premises for various services, a secretariat, and a hall for celebrations. Adorning the interiors are many works of art: sculptures, paintings, wall paintings, etc.

As of 1975, the Prefecture building has been included in the register of historical monuments.