Palais de Justice, Strasbourg

The Palais de Justice of Strasbourg is a large 19th-century neo-Greek building in the Tribunal quarter of the Neustadt district of Strasbourg, France, which houses Strasbourg's main court, the Tribunal de Grande Instance.HistoryThe Palais de Justice was built between 1894 and 1898 by the Danish architect Skjold Neckelmann, after the death of his partner August Hartel. It was to be his last major work.The Palais, designed in Greek Revival style, features a large portico with Ionic columns, surmounted by a triangular pediment that is decorated with the allegories of Justice (under the figure of the goddess Athena) and Fortitude or Courage, with two sphinxes. The entrance gate features a mask of Gorgon, believed to ward off evil.RenovationIn the 21st century, there was a long debate as to whether to build a new courthouse or to renovate the existing building. The latter option was finally chosen, with work due to begin at the end of 2013.The work, which will entend the existing building, has been assigned to the Spanish architect Jordi Garcés, and is expected to be completed in 2016, at a cost of 63.2 million euros.However, the renovation plans of Garcés are being contested in the courts by the Association des Vieux amis de Strasbourg, on the grounds that they involve the destruction of three courtrooms that are designated as monuments historiques.