The canonical neighbourhood

The noble Lady Canons of Remiremont lived in magnificent canon houses, now listed as Historic Monuments. At the centre of the canonical quarter are the chapter house, reserved for the canonesses, and the Palais Abbatial, the residence of the abbess and dignitaries. The district still boasts 14 18th-century canon houses, recognisable by their classical, harmonious facades with pediments that once featured the coats of arms of noble families. Today, these houses are mainly privately owned, with the exception of the one that houses the Charles Friry Museum, where you can discover one of these sumptuous residences.

The Chapitre Féminin de Remiremont was one of the most prestigious abbeys in France before the Revolution. It was a chapter of noble canonesses, whose members had to prove 16 quarters of nobility to be admitted. These canonesses, exempt from religious vows, could marry and return to secular life. The houses, lent by the Chapter, offered comfort according to the rank of the residents.