This impressive ensemble, built by order of the French king Louis XVIII in 1820, is known in urban circles as 'Hôpital Plaza', although it only actually served as a hospital for a very short period at the end of the First World War. During that period, more than 8,000 wounded soldiers - mainly Belgian - were cared for there.

After the bloody French Revolution, Catholic fervor raged again in western France, especially in Normandy, creating a need for educational opportunities for young men who felt called to the priesthood. Two wealthy residents donated the necessary land to the diocese to establish a 'minor seminary' on this site. The complex became an architectural replica of the nearby 'major seminary'. Young seminarians first received training here (corresponding to the current level of a university), after which they completed their studies at the major seminary.

The minor seminary not only welcomed young people destined for the priesthood; it also provided access to a general education, both for sons of wealthy families and those from more modest backgrounds. The school remained in operation until 1905, when the French church and state were once again separated.