Timeline

Origin and history

The House of Elephant, located in Clermont-Ferrand in Puy-de-Dôme, is an emblematic monument dating back to the 12th century. It is surrounded by the castle of the city and owes its name to a mural depicting an elephant, located in the ecoinçon of the axial geminied bays. Although its architecture is mainly Romanesque art, some elements already announce Gothic style, making it a transitional architectural testimony.

The house underwent several transformations between the 14th and 19th centuries, notably to be adapted to house. The original Romanesque berries were blocked and replaced by disparate windows, reflecting the evolving needs of its occupants. These successive changes marked its history, while preserving traces of its initial medieval structure.

Ranked a Historic Monument in 1862, the Elephant House is now owned by an association. Its state of conservation and heritage interest make it a notable place in Clermont-Ferrand, although its current use (visits, room rental or guest rooms) is not specified in the available sources. The accuracy of its location is considered satisfactory, with an address confirmed at 12 Kléber Street.

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