I Love Angers Half-Timbered Houses

Half-timbered houses constitute a large part of the architectural interest in Angers for me. Let’s take a tour of Angers and its historical architecture which will also include some nice art deco carvings. The first thing to remember when you see something categorized as a hôtel (or l’hôtel) is that it is not someplace where you can spend the night – unless, that is, you own it. A hôtel is a private town house and they range in size from grand to fairly unbelievable.

Hôtel Particulier

Many times, these hôtels/mansions are behind locked gates and only rare glimpses allow you to see the beautiful façade in its entirety or the gardens that lie within. Others, such as the Musée Pincé, house beautiful collections of art. Built in the 1530s , William Bodinier, a painter, gave the house to the city in 1860. In the heart of the city, it is located at 32 bis, rue Lenepveu.

Musée Pincé

The gothic structure of Hôtel Pincé, built in 1530 by the mayor of Angers, is decorated in Renaissance style. In the courtyard you will see the façade of a 16^th century house that was once on rue St-Laud.

16th century facade in courtyard of Musée Pincé

Half-timbered Houses

As with many other cities in France, you will not find any houses dating prior to the 15th century. However, the half-timbered houses that you will find at every turn in Angers will delight you with their differences.

Half timbered houses

Half timbered house carving

You will be able to note the time change from the 15/16th century buildings to the 17/18th century buildings because stone replaced the timbers.

Maison d’Adam

Maison d’Adam is so named for the figures of Adam and Eve which framed the tree of life. This house is considered an exceptional example of the carpenter’s art found at the end of the 1500s. Located on Place St-Croix behind the Cathedral, you do not want to miss examining this house. And, you also will want to thoroughly explore the gift shop it houses. There are some great souvenirs to be found inside that are not of the kitschy variety.

Maison d Adam

Historic Center

The area between the Château and the Cathedral takes you back in time as you wander narrow cobbled streets. It is the historic heart of the city.

Old Town Angers

More pictures of the historic area can be found by clicking here

Art Nouveau

In all your wanderings, do not fail to look up. There are many features to delight the eye. You should especially watch for signs of Art Nouveau that appeared in Angers at the turn of the 20th century.