Château de Françon, Romanesque Revival monument in Biarritz, France
Château de Françon is a castle built in Romanesque Revival style with Anglo-Norman features, distinguished by twin towers and ornamental stained glass windows throughout. The structure blends Gothic elements with French influences into a unique architectural composition.
Construction took place from 1880 to 1884 under architect Ralph Selden Wornum for John Pennington Mellor, a merchant who built his wealth through trade between Brazil and Liverpool. The building arrived during an era when prosperous traders erected such grand residences in European coastal cities.
The main hall shows parquet floors decorated with patterns honoring both England and France. These details reflect how international influences shaped the look and feel of the place.
The building sits on Rue du Salon in Biarritz and functions today as an event venue with lodging options. Visitors should check ahead since access depends on what bookings are scheduled.
The original grounds covered 50 hectares filled with rare plants from various continents. A notable feature was a wooden Swiss chalet transported from a world exhibition.
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