The Crown of Burgundy

The Colors of Power: Why Burgundy's Roofs Shine

When you walk through the historic streets of Dijon, your eye is naturally drawn to the medieval half-timbered houses and the intricate details carved into the old facades. But look up, and you’ll see the city truly crowned in glory: the magnificent, geometric patterns of its famous glazed roof tiles, known locally as tuiles vernissées.

These rooftops are more than just decoration; they are a centuries-old visual marker of Burgundy's identity and immense wealth, dating back to the height of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy in the 14th and 15th centuries.

A Symbol of Ducal Wealth

Why the elaborate color and shine? The unique pattern—typically diamonds or chevrons rendered in striking geometric arrangements of black, yellow, red, and green—was expensive to produce and served as a powerful sign of status. They declared the wealth and political importance of the owner, often a Duke's official, a rich merchant, or a powerful religious order. The tiles are fully integrated into the architecture of key buildings, most famously the Hospices de Beaune just south of Dijon, but they define Dijon’s most prestigious quarters as well.

Architectural Spotlight in Dijon

As you explore Dijon for your video, look closely at buildings near the Palais des Ducs and the Church of Notre Dame. The brilliant, saturated colors of the glazed tiles reflect the light, making the city feel richer and more unique than almost any other in France.

It’s a perfect example of how the city’s deep history, strong architectural traditions, and artistic sensibility are layered into everyday life—a fantastic detail for anyone thinking about calling this elegant city home!

WATCH YOUR GUIDE TO DIJON PART 2 HERE!: https://youtu.be/VmbTPUkDzKA

Credits:

Xaviateur, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Benjamin Smith, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons