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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Millepertuis house, located in Fontenay-le-Comte in the Vendée department, is a stone building built of limestone and stone, with a hollow tile cover. Dating from the 4th quarter of the 16th century, it illustrates the influence of the Italian architect Serlio, characteristic of Manerist architecture of the late Renaissance. Its orderly façade, decorated with vermiculated bosses, and its doric door reflect this refined style.

Nicknamed "House of the King" or "Henri-IV House", local tradition claims that Henry IV stayed there during the siege of Fontenay in 1587, although this assumption is based on no proven historical record. The king reportedly named the building "House of Millepertuis" with reference to the shape of its ornaments. Under the Old Regime, the building depended on Pasty's fief, emphasizing its importance in the urban fabric of the time.

Partially classified as historical monuments in 1947 (facades and roofs), then in 1999 (scaling, corridor and two chimneys), the house underwent modifications in the 20th century, such as the opening of windows on the ground floor. A piece of chimney decorated with an armored shield was moved to Newfoundland Castle, while an adjacent door was relocated to 14-16 Pont-aux-Chèvres Street. These elements demonstrate the transformation and reuse of local heritage.

Inside, the stairwell in stone, vaulted, and chimneys (including a missing one) recall the original fascist, although the interior layouts of the period were lost. The movement of the staircase, although degraded, remains a remarkable example of Renaissance craftsmanship. Today owned by an association, the house embodies a unique architectural heritage in Pays de la Loire, combining local history and Italian influences.

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