Toulouse photo gallery - Capitole

The Capitole sits in the historic centre's main square. Councillors first purchased a building to become the "Common House" in 1190, which would be the precedessor of the Capitole. Expanded over the centuries, by the early 18th century, the building was at risk of collapse and reconstruction was needed, creating the facade that we see today.

Parts of the building are open to the public to see its elaborately-decorated rooms. It is a must-see and typically open but there are times when they shut to visitors despite their official opening hours due to events. When I first came, I was out of luck but returned first thing next morning and got in before the crowds arrived.

The grand entrance is already impressive with the decorated staircase heading up to the first room.

Completed in 1916, the Paul-Gervais Room is the former wedding hall, decorated with themes of love and happiness in different ages.

The Henri-Martin Room was built in 1605 and housed portraits of the Capitouls until the revolution. In 1900, local painter Henri Martin was appointed to decorate the restored room.

The main highlight is the Salle des Illustres, created in 1892 to replace an earlier room. It is decorated with war scenes to defend the fatherland.

I could only peek into the Municipal Council Chamber from the side, which is decorated with paintings depicting Toulouse's history and landscapes.