Hôtel de Manville, Renaissance window at Hôtel de Manville in Les Baux-de-Provence, France.
The Hôtel de Manville features a Renaissance window displaying intricate stone carving with classical architectural details. The opening shows fluted pilasters, flat capitals, and a decorated entablature that demonstrate the skilled stonework of the 16th century.
This window was built in 1571 during a period of religious tension between Protestants and Catholics in the region. The house documents a moment when Protestant families openly displayed their faith in this traditionally Catholic area.
The Latin inscription 'Post Tenebras Lux' on this window reflects Protestant beliefs and translates to 'After darkness, light'. It reveals the religious convictions of the family who lived here during a time of religious upheaval.
The window is located on Grand Rue and remains visible year-round, allowing you to explore it at your own pace. Its position on the main street makes it easy to find while walking through the village.
The window displays an inscribed date carved directly into the stone that documents its exact construction period. This numerical inscription is a rare feature that has allowed historians to confirm the precise time the stonework was completed.
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