The major building on the west side of the square is the Maison du Roi. This was built in 1536, directly opposite the Hotel de Ville, by the king of Spain who wanted to show everyone who was boss after he'd captured the city. No royals ever lived in this palace, but their tax gatherers did, which was probably worse. The main claim to fame of the buildings to the right of the Maison du Roi is that Victor Hugo lived in one for a bit. Mr Monkey was fascinated by the strangely thin green men prancing around the roof of the Maison du Roi.
Copyright Rik Shepherd and Mr Monkey. This page last modified 30 June 2005