Château de Ménival, Renaissance castle in 5th arrondissement of Lyon, France
Château de Ménival is a castle built in the late 1800s in the 5th arrondissement, featuring a rectangular plan with contrasting towers on opposite sides. The southern face shows a series of gallery bays with columns, while the eastern section displays triple mullioned windows.
The building was completed in 1896 by architect Jules Durand, replacing a 17th-century structure called Massut that previously occupied the site. This construction was part of Lyon's transformation during the Belle Époque period.
The residence shifted from an exclusive private home to a multi-unit dwelling, reflecting how grand estates adapted to modern urban living. This transformation shows how such properties remained part of the neighborhood's social fabric rather than becoming isolated monuments.
The castle sits in a hilly eastern area of Lyon and is accessible by local transport, though the neighborhood has notable elevation changes. Arriving via Avenue de Ménival provides the most direct approach to the property.
The structure displays an unusual blend of architectural styles mixing Belle-Époque elements with older design traditions. This combination reflects the diverse building practices of late 1800s Lyon.
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