Closed since 2009, the former prison of Béziers will live a new life in tourism. It will in fact be transformed into a hotel.
In Haute-Garonne, the prefecture is evaluating the future of the Saint-Michel prison. In the Hérault, the future of the former prison of Béziers is now known. The site, closed since 2009, will live a new life in tourism.
“The objective is to create a unique living space in a place steeped in history in the heart of Béziers”says the investment fund Occitania Tourism Fund. The latter announced on Wednesday 7 December that it was contributing 1.5 million euros to this project, out of a total of 7.5 million euros. 28 jobs will be created with this project.
A prison in Béziers becomes a hotel with fifty rooms
The prison was in operation from 1867 to 2009. It gained prominence by hosting the guillotine for the three departments of Hérault, Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales in 1939. It was also enlarged on this occasion. Nine convicts were executed in the Béziers pre-trial detention centre. The last executions date back to 1949.
“Transformed into a hotel, the prison will retain its architectural memory, its beautiful volumes and this image which is part of the Béziers “postcard”, states the investment fund. “This exceptional site has an ideal location with a panoramic view of the Orb valley. »
The goal is to offer a unique experience through an atypical accommodation, quality and affordable. The establishment promises gourmet and authentic catering, a wellness space and a modern and appropriate business environment. The hotel complex will have fifty rooms. In terms of decoration, expect a fine balance between the building’s history and a modernist decoration that mixes furniture from the 50s and 70s with works by contemporary artists.
