Eynard Palace

Eynard Palace (Palais Eynard) in Geneva is a neoclassical mansion beside the Parc des Bastions. The city has owned it since 1891, and it now serves as Geneva's municipal building. Its official name, Palais Anna et Jean-Gabriel Eynard, honours the couple who built it.

Who built it, and when?

Banker Jean-Gabriel Eynard returned to Geneva in 1816 after making his fortune in Italy. Between 1817 and 1821 he had the residence raised on part of the former Bastion Bourgeois, a section of the old city fortifications. His wife, Anna Eynard-Lullin, drew the first sketches. Several architects shaped the final design, with the Florentine Giovanni Salucci contributing most. Cantonal engineer Guillaume-Henri Dufour supervised the site while Eynard was away.

What happens inside today?

The city bought the palace in 1891 and installed the Swiss collections of the Natural History Museum there. It was listed as a historic monument in 1921 and underwent a full renovation from 1981 to 1986. Today it houses city administration: the Conseil administratif meets here every week, the City Archives were founded in the building on 1 August 1986, and several municipal departments work from its offices.

How do you find it, and what will you see?

The address is Rue de la Croix-Rouge 4, right by the Parc des Bastions. Pair the visit with a walk through the park and the old town. From outside you see a symmetrical classical block whose garden side faces the greenery. Because it is a working municipal office, the interior serves administration rather than regular sightseeing, so check geneve.ch for current access.

What else is nearby?

Next door stands the Palais de l'Athénée, built by the Eynard family in 1863 for the Société des Arts. The International Committee of the Red Cross was founded there. The Parc des Bastions, with its Reformation Wall, is a few steps away, and the old town with St Peter's Cathedral is a short walk.

When should you go?

Daylight hours in spring and summer suit the exterior best, when the greenery sets off the pale facade. On weekdays you may see staff coming and going, while weekends are quieter outside.

Frequently asked questions

Is Palais Eynard Geneva's city hall? It works as the municipal building. The city's executive council meets here weekly, and the City Archives are based here too.

Who designed it? Anna Eynard-Lullin sketched the first plans. Several architects took part, and Giovanni Salucci had the greatest influence on the final form.

Can you tour the interior? It is an active office building. The city publishes current access details on geneve.ch.

How do you get there? Head for Rue de la Croix-Rouge 4, next to the Parc des Bastions in central Geneva.