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Prison panoptique
Remarkable civil building, Listed or registered (CNMHS), 19th century
in Autun
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A circular ‘panoptic’ prison, built around 1847 by the architect Berthier.
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In 1847, the department decided to build a new prison, as the one at the courthouse had become obsolete.
The original decision was then taken to construct a circular, panoptic prison, in accordance with prisoners’ rights. It was also an interesting strategy from an economic perspective, as this layout made it possible to drastically reduce the number of prison guards. The building, a three-storey cylinder, stood thirteen metres high and twenty-three metres in diameter. The cells are quite...In 1847, the department decided to build a new prison, as the one at the courthouse had become obsolete.
The original decision was then taken to construct a circular, panoptic prison, in accordance with prisoners’ rights. It was also an interesting strategy from an economic perspective, as this layout made it possible to drastically reduce the number of prison guards. The building, a three-storey cylinder, stood thirteen metres high and twenty-three metres in diameter. The cells are quite spacious, and the prisoners also have access to natural light and heating, which was very comfortable for the time. The exercise yards are situated on the third level, beneath the roof terrace. This prison was decommissioned after the Second World War.
Exterior view only. The Rolin Museum is currently working with the prison to create a large museum that will make use of the 360-degree view offered by this circular building. The project is due to be completed in 2030.
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