Private Mansions

Summary

Of the 17th century

Great architects such as Simon Levesville and d'Aviler brought major changes to medieval dwellings. The austere façades contrasted with the monumental staircase that was adorned with balustrades and which led onto an internal courtyard. It became the symbol of social distinction.

Of the 18th century

The main feature of the 18th century was the embellishment of the façades due to a generation of architects from the Languedoc, known as the Giral. Façades gradually became less sober and balconies started to boast elaborate ironworks.

Of the 19th century, from Private Mansions to income property

Along with the bourgeoisie's ascension to power and its demand for profit, the Private Mansions became income properties. The façades and the staircases became adorned with exuberant décor, sometimes even ostentatious, inspired by the Haussman style which broke with the tradition of Montpellier.

Private Mansions

Over two centuries a large number of private mansions were built in the city, homes that were signs of their owner's prosperity. Noblemen and rich traders built nearly one hundred such luxurious buildings in the centre. Huge gate entrances, large, luminous interior courtyards, forged iron railings lined stone staircases leading up to vast apartments... These mansions are closed to the public, but some may be explored with the Tourist Office guided tours.

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