The stained glass Center is located in Troyes city center, in the west wing of the Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte, a remarkable 18th-century building on the Quai des Comtes-de-Champagne. Discover the secrets of stained glass through a permanent exhibition of original works. It covers both the creation of stained glass and its historical chronology, as well as the specific techniques used, and provides keys to understanding this art form.
This is the starting point for discovering the art of stained glass. You can then discover the stained glass windows in situ on the stained glass route.
The stained glass Center offers an innovative, up-close look at stained glass
You are welcomed in the west wing of the Hôtel-Dieu, where you will also find the entrance to the apothecary. The monumental 18th-century staircase leads to the various floors, spread over four levels and two entresols. The tour begins on the third floor of the building and culminates in the Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte chapel.
During your visit, you’ll discover many masterpieces, both ancient and contemporary. The route is punctuated by stained glass windows at eye level… It will give you an insight into the evolution of this art form from the Middle Ages to the present day. Highlight of the visit, the Hôtel-Dieu-le-Comte chapel has been restored to its former glory.. The choir stained glass window by artist Fabienne Verdier, the murals, woodwork and furniture have just been restored. The 8 bays of this showcase alternately feature monumental stained glass windows with natural light.
The Apothecary
In this large room, listed as a Monument Historique, you’ll discover a collection of 319 painted wooden pharmaceutical boxes from the 18th and 19th centuries, and almost 300 earthenware pots, soberly decorated with foliage and blue flower motifs. There are also many pharmacy items. You can find 80% of the ingredients for Harry Potter’s polynectar in the apothecary.
The apothecary is accessible with the stained glass Center entrance ticket. The adjoining exhibition center will be devoted to the history of the Hôtel-Dieu, from its foundation to the arrival of the stained glass Center.
The stained glass Center, a place for research
A center for the study and research of stained glass will provide historians, student researchers and stained glass specialists with a place to promote knowledge of stained glass. Researchers will find both a specialized documentation center and a study center for the observation and analysis of works deposited or entrusted to the Center. Multi-disciplinary educational workshops give visitors an insight into the techniques of stained glass art. The stained glass Center’s cultural and scientific programming is equally demanding, offering high-quality temporary monographic or thematic exhibitions, and creating scientific and artistic events (conferences, symposia, readings, theme days, etc.).