Maison de la Lieutenance, house
The Maison de la Lieutenance is a classified historical monument in Cognac located on Rue Grande, featuring timber framing and stone elements dating from the 15th to 17th centuries. The lower portion is built of stone for structural support, while the upper levels display carved wooden posts decorated with animal figures, geometric patterns, and human heads.
The Maison de la Lieutenance was constructed in the 15th century and served for centuries as the residence of local officials, notably lieutenant Pierre de Lacombe in the early 1600s. The building underwent interior modifications in the 17th century, including wall paintings with birds and botanical motifs that remain visible today.
The house takes its name from its original role as the residence of a lieutenant, a local official from the early 1600s. The carved wooden details and decorative symbols represent the craftsmanship and artistry that people valued in their homes during that period.
The house is located on Rue Grande in central Cognac and is easy to reach on foot, although it is privately owned and cannot be entered. Visitors can view the facade from the street to observe the carved wooden details and historic stonework.
The wooden posts of the house display unusual carvings, including two human figures at a corner, one standing upright and the other upside down. These rare decorative touches reveal the artistic creativity and sense of humor of the craftsmen from that era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
