A Casino in Beaune in a historic building!
The casino building, formerly known as the "Kursaal," was built at the end of the 19th century. Initially designed as a spa entertainment venue, it evolved over the decades to become the current casino, while retaining its distinctive architecture and old-world charm.
The Origins of the Kursaal: An Ambitious Project
At the end of the 19th century, Santenay experienced a boom thanks to its thermal springs, particularly the Fontaine Salée. In 1892, Charles Vandal, a Parisian banker, began building the first casino to develop this spring. Meanwhile, in 1894, Antoine Deparis, former manager of the Fontaine Salée, obtained a lease from the town to build a competing establishment in the area known as Les Pâtis. Unable to use the term "casino," which was already in use by his rivals, he named his establishment "Kursaal," a term of Germanic origin designating an entertainment hall in spa resorts.
])
A place of entertainment and culture
In 1895, the Kursaal obtained permission to operate the game of "Petits Chevaux," which was very popular at the time. In 1903, a sixteen-seat baccarat table was installed, expanding the gaming offering. The building, adorned with a refined park crossed by a central avenue, hosted open-air concerts, and in 1912, an open-air theater was created. The interior was carefully decorated by Pierre Luquet, an artist from Chagny, and equipped with electric lighting, an innovation for the time. Burgundy-Franche-Comté Heritage
Fire and Reconstruction
In 1908, a fire destroyed the gallery between the two pavilions of the Kursaal. The following year, the central part of the building was rebuilt in its current form, with a roof covered with glazed tiles, characteristic of Burgundian architecture.
])
A role during the World Wars
During the First World War, the Kursaal was requisitioned by the army to serve as an auxiliary hospital. The games were closed at the start of the Second World War, and the building once again housed the army’s medical service. These troubled times marked a slowdown in Santenay’s spa and leisure activities.
])
Beaune and its Casino: a diverse gaming space
The JOA Casino in Santenay offers a wide range of games to satisfy all player profiles:
- Slot machines: With 150 machines, including classic reels, video reels, and video poker, electronic gaming enthusiasts will find what they’re looking for.
- Traditional table games: Fans can indulge in English roulette, blackjack, and Ultimate Poker.
- Electronic games: For a modern experience, electronic blackjack and English roulette tables are also available.
Opening hours vary by day, with later closing times on weekends.
Le Comptoir JOA: a culinary experience
The Le Comptoir JOA restaurant offers modern bistro-style cuisine, showcasing fresh, seasonal produce. Open daily for lunch and dinner, it offers:
- Daily special: €17
- Starter + main course or main course + dessert: €21
- Complete starter + main course + dessert: €25
- À la carte menu: between €29 and €36
The friendly atmosphere and varied menu make this restaurant a popular spot with both casino visitors and locals.
Entertainment and events at the Beaune Casino
The JOA Casino in Santenay is also a dynamic entertainment venue, offering throughout the year:
- Aperitif concerts and dinner concerts
- Theme evenings and cabarets
- Blind tests and interactive games
These events contribute to a festive and friendly atmosphere, attracting a diverse audience.
Practical Information
- Address: 9, avenue des Sources, 21590 Santenay
- Telephone: +33 (0)3 80 26 22 44
- Website: www.joa.fr/casinos/santenay
- Access: The casino is accessible by car, with parking available on site.
- Entry requirements: Access is restricted to adults only, upon presentation of a valid ID.
