Palais de la Prefecture
Former royal palace of the Dukes of Savoy built in the 17th century
This palace is thought to have been built in the early 17th century and was home to the Dukes of Savoy until 1860.
The date of its construction remains uncertain, but what is certain is the building was used as residence by the Dukes of Savoy during their constant visits and stays in Nice for 250 years (from 1610 to 1860). Hence, it was called the Royal Palace, the Palace of the Dukes of Savoy or the Palace of the Kings of Sardinia. Since 1861 until now it has been accommodating the headquarters of the Prefecture of the Maritime Alps Department of France (Prefecture des Alpes-Maritimes).
Architecturally speaking, the current Prefecture Palace does not retain much of the former Palais Royal. In fact, the repeated restoration works carried out throughout the centuries have screened or completely removed most of the original architectural elements. In spite of this evidence, certain sections of the edifice (the main staircase, the façade and the roof, for instance) do enjoy the statute of historical monument (declared as such in 1996).
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When to come
As it is an administrative building, it is normally closed to the public. You can visit inside during the Jounees du Patrimoine, in September.
