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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The hotel of Lestang-Parade, located in Arles in Bouches-du-Rhône, is a private hotel built around 1740 for the family of Lestang-Parade. This monument reflects the architectural ambition of the time, with a three-level, structured facade, marked by corinthian coronal and wrought iron balconies, and an imposing pediment. Its majestic porch and slit links highlight the verticality of the building, while mascarons adorn the cornice, serving as gutters. The hotel was built after the acquisition in 1733 of a pre-existing building by Antoine-Joseph de Lestang-Parade, the first consul of Aix, who undertook his reconstruction to display family prestige.

In the 18th century, the hotel was on the edge of Gambetta Street, extended by the bridge of Trinquetaille. Its location, partially masked by the ramp of the bridge and occupied on the ground floor by commercial signs, altered its initial perception. Despite this urban evolution, the facade retains remarkable elements, such as the superimposed balconies and the Corinthian capitals, testimony to the classical architectural influence in Provence. The building, inscribed in historical monuments since 1988, thus embodies both the Aixian aristocratic heritage and the transformations of the Arlesian landscape.

The registration of the hotel as historical monuments, by order of 6 July 1988, recognizes its heritage value. The protected elements include the entire structure (CADASTER AD 26), thus preserving its facade and interior decorations, although these are not detailed in the available sources. Today located at 15 rue du Pont, the hotel remains a significant example of the civil architecture of the Enlightenment century in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, combining residential function and social affirmation.

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