When entering the Conciergerie, it’s the salle des Gens d’Armes (Hall of the Men at Arms) that you will see first.
In the Middle Ages, this huge room served as a canteen for the palace’s staff. Nowadays, it’s still the vastest civil gothic hall in Europe.
Built during the reign of Philipp the Fair, from 1300 to 1314, it’s divided in 4 naves separated by pillars. Its vaults peak at 8.5 meters and the columns capitals are ornated with intertwined foliage, contributing to the effect of greatness and breathtaking beauty.
This room where 1000 to 2000 people ate every day was heated up by four fireplaces. The king’s staff met all day long in this hall which was constantly lively and full of activities. It also served a few times as a warehouse for weapons, food or firewood and even as a dormitory.