Grands Thermes

English translation

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History

Built in the early 20th century in a Romano-Auvergnat style mixed with ancient reminiscences, the thermal establishment appears as an eclectic building of great quality. The richness of its interior decoration, in polychrome faience, stucco and marble, is particularly remarkable. The great thermal baths are set against the mountain which was excavated to allow the building to be placed at the location where the springs of hot mineral water intended to feed the baths gush forth. Built by architect Chaussemiche, the rectangular-plan building is formed of four wings surrounding a covered atrium with a glass roof. The main façade comprises a central advance section sheltering the entrance vestibule and a large reception hall and promenade. This central pavilion is flanked by two lateral wings at the same level as the return wings. These wings, which form a square around the atrium, house on two levels the various changing rooms and treatment cabins. Two symmetrical staircases, situated at each end of the great hall, serve the lateral wings. The essence of the external architectural decoration is concentrated on the north main façade. The floors are in mosaics and stoneware tiles. The walls are covered with polychrome faience by Boulenger (ceramicist). The doors of the hall are adorned with stained glass with non-figurative decoration. Capitals and ornaments have been sculpted in stucco and are due to A. Octobre.