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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Marchand House, located in Billy in the Allier department (region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes), is a 15th century stone building. It is distinguished by its almost square plan, housing a large room on the ground floor and another upstairs, equipped with a stone fireplace. A murderer, visible in the west wall, bears witness to his initial defensive role, linked to the fortress that Billy once constituted.

Originally, this house served as a guard for the defenses of the Chabotin Gate, one of the city's fortified entrances. The officer-in-charge was staying on the first floor, while the ground floor was later arranged to accommodate a trade, with pierced openings, including an vent hall. This dual use, military and then commercial, reflects Billy's evolution to the fate of the medieval period.

The Marchand House has been listed as historic monuments since 15 September 1962. Protected elements include facades, roofs, and the main hall on the ground floor. Today, the building belongs to the municipality of Billy and retains architectural traces of its past both defensive and merchant.

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