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Origin and history

Hotel Fréard du Castel is an emblematic building of the city of Bayeux, located in the Calvados department in Normandy. Built around 1770, it embodies the refined civil architecture of the eighteenth century, typical of the mansions of that time. Its location in the heart of Bayeux's protected area, between numbers 11 and 15 of rue de la Gambette (formerly rue de la Cambette), highlights its importance in the local urban heritage. The hotel is particularly remarkable for its entrance gate, its south facade overlooking the garden, as well as its large living room on the first floor, adorned with a fireplace and an exceptional decor.

The hotel owes its name to Raoul-Adrien Fréard du Castel, mathematician for whom it was built. This character, although less known than other figures of the time, illustrates the link between intellectual elites and architectural patronage in the Enlightenment century. The monument was partially listed as historical monuments on December 28, 1984, a recognition that specifically covers the gate, the facade on garden with its roof, and the large living room with its interior decor. These protected elements reflect the artistic quality and heritage importance of the building.

The hotel's location in a protected area reinforces its historical and urban value. Bayeux, a city already rich in medieval and Renaissance heritage, sees with this hotel a significant example of the architectural evolution towards more classical and elegant forms. Available sources, including references to the Merimée database and Flohic editions, confirm its status as a representative monument of Calvados. Today, although information on its current vocation (visits, rentals, accommodation) is missing from the sources, its listing in the heritage guarantees its preservation for future generations.

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