Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The two houses located in Valdivienne, on the Rue de l'Amôterie, date from the 4th quarter of the 15th century and the 1st quarter of the 16th century. They form a distinct architectural ensemble despite their cadastral reunion in 1811. Their structure reflects a mixed use: the ground floor, dedicated to commercial or craft activities, contrasts with the upper floors, reserved for private housing. A passage physically separates the two buildings, whose facades remain individualized.

Six construction phases marked their history, with major works between 1477 and 1551. The first phase corresponds to the building of the house n°17, followed by a reorganisation of the floors including a split wall and an attached house. The third phase was triggered by the collapse of the eastern droprot wall, rebuilt later (phase four) with the addition of an external staircase and religious painted decorations prior to the sixteenth century, such as a Saint Christophus or a Lamentation on the dead Christ. Before 1691, the houses were separated and their doors condemned. The last changes were from the 19th century.

The interior decorations preserved in n°17, especially on the noble floor, testify to their past richness. These religious-themed murals also include a soldier's representation. Ranked Historic Monument by decree of 15 May 2008, the two houses (n°15 and 17) illustrate the architectural and social evolution of a late medieval village, between economic and residential functions.

External links