A relocation in dispute. Negotiations and debates around the project to transfer the Parliament of Franche-Comté (1623-1626)

Abstract

This article studies the process that began in 1623 and developed between 1624 and 1626 in the courts of Brussels and Madrid in relation to the project presented by the city of Besançon to host the main institution of Franche-Comté of Burgundy: the Parliament. This institution, located in the capital, Dole, had broad powers in all kinds of matters and great autonomy, becoming the most relevant center of power in the province. The project, however, had two problems: Besançon's status as a free imperial city, outside the jurisdiction of the Spanish monarch and Dole's absolute opposition. The article analyzes the arguments of these two cities and those alleged by the councilors of both courts.