Joigny

A great fire on 12 July 1530 transformed Joigny. Rebuilding gave the town much of its later appearance, including its timber-framed houses. Saint-Jean, consecrated in 1504, underwent extensive reconstruction between 1548 and 1596. An inscription names the local architect Jean Chériau as responsible for the nave and vault and records completion on 12 March 1596.

Joigny also developed as a garrison town from the mid-sixteenth century. Soldiers initially lodged with inhabitants, placing military life within ordinary households; later the town paid for barracks. Between 1758 and 1762 it built substantial quarters along the Yonne quays. In 1802 Louis Bonaparte commanded the Fifth Dragoons here. Reconstruction after disaster and the recurring demands of soldiers thus left distinct marks on a town whose streets descended towards the river and bridge.