Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Durand Raoul House, located in Villefranche-de-Conflent in the Pyrénées-Orientales, is a 12th century historical monument. This civil building, now partially protected, bears witness to Romanesque architecture by its distinctive elements: two asymmetric arches at the base of the facade, separated by a central pillar. Left arch, in circle segment, contrasts with that on the right, in full hanger or slightly broken. These details suggest a neat construction, typical of bourgeois or notable houses of the medieval period in Languedoc-Roussillon.

Upstairs, a revamped window suggests an ancient geminate bay, a common architectural element in Romanesque houses. Two quarter-round consoles, topped by a listel, adorn the upper part, while the use of the device stone stops up the second floor, indicating perhaps an economy of means or a change of technique. Historically, this house was once connected to the neighbouring plot, known as the "Infant House", suggesting a larger housing complex, now divided.

The Durand Raoul House has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1965 for its facade on street and roof, embodying the medieval civil heritage of Villefranche-de-Conflent. Its registration reflects its architectural value, although its exact location (5/10 depending on the sources) and its current use – visit, accommodation or other – remain poorly documented. The data available are mainly from the Merimée database and from local sources such as Monumentum, without specifying any historical owners or sponsors.

External links