Hôtel Montescot, Private mansion in Chartres, France
Hôtel Montescot is a private mansion in Chartres consisting of three buildings arranged around a square courtyard and enclosed by a wall featuring a monumental portal with Doric columns. This gateway serves as the main entrance to the entire complex and defines its formal character.
The mansion was built in 1546 by Jean de Montescot and sustained significant damage during the French Wars of Religion. It was reconstructed in 1614 and has maintained its restored form ever since.
The ground floor displays a painted ceiling from the 17th century bearing the initials of Claude de Montescot and his wife Madeleine Havardin. This artistic decoration reflects the wealth and status of the family who once lived here.
The building now serves as Chartres City Hall with administrative offices and ceremonial spaces for municipal functions and weddings. Access may be restricted since it remains an active government seat with regular operations.
Latin inscriptions on the main facade record the 1614 reconstruction and detail the building process of that period. Winged figures decorate the pediments above the three original doorways, giving the ensemble a classical refinement.
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