Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The house of Castres, classified as a Historical Monument, is a remarkable testimony of the civil architecture of the late 15th or early 16th century. It is part of an irregular quadrilateral island, once organized around gardens and courtyards, suggesting a unique and vast residence fragmented later. The flamboyant Gothic elements, such as the corbels and carved decorations, underline its past prestige.

The entrance gate, protected since 1960, is distinguished by its curved frame in accolade, adorned with bud pinnacles and stylized plant motifs. Polygonal bases and slender pilasters reflect the influence of Toulouse-Lautrec, a local noble family. In 1592, the corner house belonged to Antoine de Lautrec, Sieur de Saint-Germier, confirming his connection with the regional aristocracy.

The preserved vestiges, including the first floor incorbellation and the sculpted details of the portal, illustrate the craftsmanship of the period. Although fragmentary, this set offers a rare overview of medieval urban habitat in the southwest, marked by both military influences (reinforced soubases) and decorative influences (Gothic motifs).

External links