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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The house at 12 Albert I Street in La Rochelle is a building representative of 18th century civil architecture. It is distinguished by its arcade porches, typical of the urban constructions of this period in the harbour cities. These architectural elements, both aesthetic and functional, reflect the influence of the commercial and cultural exchanges unique to La Rochelle, then in full economic growth.

Classified as a Historical Monument, this house was specifically protected for its arcades, registered by order of 14 June 1928. This status underlines the heritage value of these elements, witnesses to urban planning and the artisanal know-how of the Enlightenment. The location of the building, in downtown La Rochelle, reinforces its historical interest, although the accuracy of its current location is considered poor (level 5 of 10).

At the time of its construction, La Rochelle was a dynamic city, marked by its major role in maritime commerce, particularly with the colonies. Arcade houses, like this one, often served as mixed spaces, combining housing, trade and storage of goods. Their presence helped to structure the streets and animate the social and economic life of the city. These buildings thus embody a period when architecture met the growing needs of an expanding market bourgeoisie.

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