Initial construction XVIe siècle (≈ 1650)
Renaissance facade and decorative elements.
XVIIe siècle
Major changes
Major changes XVIIe siècle (≈ 1750)
Added portals for Cramahé Chastaigner.
1926
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 1926 (≈ 1926)
Protection of walls and facades.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Key figures
Famille Chastaigner de Cramahé - Presumed owners
Associated with 17th century portals.
Origin and history
Hotel François 1er, located in La Rochelle, is a historical monument whose posterior façade illustrates the local architecture of the late Renaissance, a period marked by a flourishing trade. The facades, decorated with two cariatides and damping vases, reflect this economic dynamism. One of the facades retains a cartridge, while its pediment has been partially altered.
Probably built in the 17th century for the Chastaigner family of Cramahé, the hotel retains street portals dating back to that time. However, the current structure could date from the 18th or 19th centuries, depending on the sources. The protected elements include the courtyard fence wall and the facade of an annex building, classified since 1926.
The location of the hotel, between Rue des Augustins and Rue Bazoges, makes it a representative example of the urban heritage of Rocheslais. Its hybrid architecture, combining Renaissance and later additions, bears witness to the stylistic evolutions and social uses of the city throughout the centuries.
