Timeline

Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The House of Knights of Barbentane, located within the old city walls, was built in the 13th century. It is distinguished by its superimposed arcades forming a double gallery, a unique architectural peculiarity in Provence. The building consists of two bodies of perpendicular houses, served by a screw staircase housed in a turret. From this medieval period there are vaulted cellars, testimonies of its ancient origin.

In the Renaissance (16th century), a double gallery was added against the eastern facade, reflecting the evolution of architectural styles. In 1665 the house was divided and sold: the northern part became the common house (city hall), while the southern part was occupied by families, and the gallery served as a hall. Between 1838 and 1843, the town hall section underwent major changes, keeping only the corner tower and its staircase. The south facade, on Pujade Street, was restored around 1740 in a classic style, with a monumental portal.

Today, the Knights' House has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1999, protecting the entire building, as well as the facades and roofs of the old town hall, its corner tower and staircase. Its architecture thus combines medieval heritage and renaissant influences, illustrating the urban and social transformations of Barbentane throughout the centuries.

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