Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Romanesque House, located at 7 Rochetaillade Street in Puy-en-Velay, is a 13th century building, classified as a Historic Monument since 1987. It is distinguished by its trapezoidal plan and its ground floor housing a medieval shop, marked by a depressed arch with harpsichords. The stalls, protected by wings, frame a central door, while an old broken arch, now replaced by a door under the lintel, gave access to a screw staircase. This monument reflects the constructive techniques and commercial organization of the time.

The second level of the house, perhaps originally blind, was modified by the addition of a mulled crib and chambranle window, probably pierced in the 15th century. The third floor, highlighted by a curved cord, was rhythmized by four arched windows, two of which were twinned with full-circle arches. Today, only the right windows remain, the others being replaced by a modern opening. A trilobed oculus adorns the tympanum, adding a decorative touch typical of late Romanesque architecture.

The facades and roofs of the house, protected since 1987, illustrate the evolution of architectural uses and styles between the 13th and 15th centuries. The building, although partially transformed, preserves key elements such as claveous discharge arches and locks decorated with cords and gorges. These details reflect the ingenuity of medieval builders and the importance of trade in cities like Le Puy-en-Velay at that time.

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