Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Hotel de Salze, located in Lodève in the Hérault, is a building whose construction did not go back until 1676, although its best preserved facade probably dates from the early eighteenth century. This building reflects the opulence of the Lovo manufacturers, especially the Salze family, who drew their wealth from the textile industry. After the Revolution, the hotel passed into the hands of Pierre Ménard, also a spinner, thus perpetuating its link with this major economic activity of the region.

The façade of the Hotel de Salze is distinguished by neat architectural elements, typical of the eighteenth century. The entrance door, topped by a full arch, is decorated with complex mouldings and a key decorated with a woman's head. The scabs have triangular reliefs, while the pilasters surrounding the door are carved out of rectangular tables with a curved frame. Consoles adorned with acanthe leaves and shells complete this ensemble, surmounted by a larmal entably. The ancient vantals, made of carved wood, reproduce the mouldings of the leggings, testifying to an exceptional craft.

Ranked a Historic Monument in 1964 for its portal (including vantals), the Hotel de Salze illustrates the architectural and social evolution of Lodève, linked to its industrial boom. The building body overlooking the boulevard Jean Jaurès, added at the end of the eighteenth century, confirms its adaptation to the tastes and needs of the era. Today, its official address is the Place du Marché, although sources also mention the Place des Châtaigniers, reflecting a sometimes imprecise location (noted 5/10 in the Mérimée base).

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