Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Daubeuf-la-Campagne tidal barn is an agricultural building built in the 12th century, originally integrated into the Daubeuf mansion, owned by Saint-Ouen de Rouen Abbey. It was used to store income from farms and seigneurial rights received by monks. This type of barn symbolized the economic power of abbeys on the surrounding lands, while playing a central role in the management of local resources.

In the 14th century, under the abbatiate of Jean-Marc d'Argent (1319-1339), the barn was enlarged by the addition of a second structure, reflecting the expansion of agricultural activities or a desire for modernization. The facades, made of flint reinforced with stone links, and the glacis foothills show construction techniques adapted to local materials. Inside, three naves bounded by oak poles structure the space, one of which, dated 1718, suggested a partial resumption of the structure at that time.

During the French Revolution, the barn and adjoining buildings were sold as National Property, marking the end of their relationship with the abbey. The monument was listed as a Historic Monument in 1948 for its heritage value. In 2011, a partial restoration was carried out by an international team of carpenters, led by François Calame, Florian Carpentier (France) and Axel Weller (Germany), mobilizing more than 30 professionals to preserve this testimony of medieval rural architecture.

The estate also includes a triple mansion, a cellar, stables and former serf habitats, illustrating the social and economic organization of a seigneurial mansion. The proximity of Notre-Dame Church, including an external wall encroaching on the property, underscores the intertwining of religious and agricultural powers in land management. Today, the barn remains a remarkable example of the architectural heritage of Norman abbeys.

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