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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Autié House, located in Villefranche-de-Conflent in the Pyrénées-Orientales, is a 14th century historical monument. It is distinguished by its fire, vestige of the ancient medieval cemetery which occupied the space between the church, the ramparts and the surrounding buildings. This fire, unique in the city, is surmounted by a broken arch decorated with mouldings and a carved boudin, typical of Gothic architecture.

In the wall of the facade, a niche houses a statue depicting a character dressed in a large pleated garment, standing on a slab bearing a Gothic inscription. Two shields, partially visible, adorn the bottom of the niche. These elements, protected by a 1965 decree, illustrate the funeral and heraldic practices of the medieval era. The Autié House, with its architectural details, offers a rare testimony of 14th century art and customs in Conflict.

The fire and niche, classified as Historic Monuments, recall that this site was once part of the Villefranche-de-Conflent cemetery. The coat of arms and ornaments, which are now largely extinct, suggest that these burials were reserved for notable families. The precise location of the house, Church Square, reinforces its link with the religious and civil heritage of the fortified city.

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