Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

This wooden house, located at 23 rue des Merciers in La Rochelle, dates from the 16th century or the first quarter of the 17th century. It is distinguished by its slate core on the wood pieces and its porch, whose lintel is still made of original wood. The stone pillars with arc primer suggest an unfinished project of reconstruction of the facade, perhaps reflecting architectural or economic changes of the time.

The facade and arcade of this house were inscribed as a Historical Monument by order of 20 June 1928. This classification reflects its heritage importance, especially for its typical Renaissance architecture. The approximate location, noted as "passable" (5/10), corresponds to the current address of 30 rue des Merciers, although sources also mention number 23.

La Rochelle, the major port of the Atlantic facade, was at that time an intense commercial activity, particularly related to salt, wine and maritime trade. Wood-paned houses, like this one, often served as housing for merchants or artisans, while sometimes sheltering professional activities on the ground floor. Their construction reflected both practical needs and an urban aesthetic concern.

The protected elements, such as the facade and arcade, illustrate the construction techniques of the time, mixing wood and stone. The use of slate for wood slate was probably intended to protect wood slate from weather, a common practice in coastal areas exposed to wind and moisture. The absence of a complete reconstruction of the façade could indicate abandonment of the project for financial reasons or a change of priorities.

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