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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

Ourville Manor House is a former fortified house built at the end of the 16th century, in the commune of La Pernelle, in the Manche department of Normandy. This monument, partly listed as historical monuments since 1975, illustrates the defensive and residential architecture of the late Renaissance. Its stone-cut facades, granite snout windows and double entrance porch (stonework and pedestrian) demonstrate remarkable craftsmanship for the time. A scalded angle turret, typical of the noble constructions of this period, completes the main house.

In 1567, Jehan de Thilly, squire and sieur d'Escarbouville and d'Ouville, was mentioned in the tax roles for his fiefs, including that of Ouzeville, a vavassory under the vicomté de Coutances. This document, prepared by Gilles Dancel (Lieutenant General du bailli de Cotentin), attests to the social and economic importance of the local lords at that time. The mansion, probably linked to this family, thus reflects the aristocratic status of its owners, between feudal power declining and affirmation of a new architectural prestige.

The protected elements of the manor house — facades, roofs, entrance porch and gate to the garden — were officially recognised by a decree of 3 July 1975. The front door, framed by fluted columns and surmounted by a curved pediment, as well as the open windows, highlight the influence of emerging classical styles, while maintaining medieval features. The location of the mansion, 1.8 km southwest of the Sainte-Pétronille church, suggests a strategic settlement, both close to the religious centre and sufficiently isolated to ensure effective defence.

The current manor structure appears to be incomplete, with a missing wing, which could indicate partial alterations or destruction over the centuries. Despite these alterations, the building remains a representative example of Norman manor houses of the Renaissance, marking the transition between medieval seigneurial residences and modern-day mansions. Its inscription in the title of historical monuments makes it a heritage to preserve, witness to local history and regional architectural evolution.

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