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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Maison du Patrimoine, formerly called "La Maison des Têtes", is a 17th century mansion located in Ollioules, Var. This monument, inscribed in the Historical Monuments since 1998, is distinguished by its vestibule, interior courtyard and monumental staircase, classified in 2000. Its architecture reflects the success of the olloulese bourgeoisie of the time, although its original owner remains unknown. The residence was acquired in 1632 by Melchior Martinenq, a lawyer, judge and consul of Ollioules, marking his anchor in local history.

After several changes of owners, the house was bought in 1996 by the town of Ollioules and transferred to the Communauté d'agglomeration Toulon Provence Méditerranée in 2007. A major restoration, launched in 2018, allows its inauguration in 2020 as the Metropolitan Heritage Interpretation Centre. The building combines fascinations (renaissance gypseries, Greco-Roman columns, portraits of emperors) and exterior sobriety, illustrating the influence of classical and maneristic currents.

Today, this interactive museum offers seven immersive rooms dedicated to metropolitan heritage, from antiquity to the present day. Historical personalities such as Nicolas Fabri de Peiresc or Pierre Puget are highlighted through 3D models, interactive screens and collection pieces. The contrast between richly decorated interior spaces and the discreet facade underscores its exceptional character.

The protected elements include the vaulted corridor, the inner courtyard with its galleries served by a ramp-on-rail staircase, and gypsum sets dated around 1600. These features, combined with a marble pavement and trompe-l'oeil paintings, make this monument a rare testimony of Provencal civil architecture of the early seventeenth century.

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