Hôtel de Castries

The Hôtel de Castries in Rue de Varenne is a grand mansion featuring a U-shaped structure that arranges two separate wings around a central courtyard. The building currently houses the offices of the Government Spokesman and various administrative departments of the French government.

The building was originally the residence of a noble family but was seized by authorities during the French Revolution and assigned to the Ministry of War. This confiscation marked the shift of the building from a private home to government use.

The mansion displays the design principles of French aristocracy through its grand reception rooms, ornate wall decorations, and formal garden layout from the 18th century. These spaces reflect the lifestyle and self-presentation that were typical for Parisian noble families of that era.

The building is located in the 7th arrondissement in a quiet area on the left bank and is surrounded by other historic buildings. Visitors should be aware that this is a government building and access to interior spaces may be restricted or not available at all.

Architect Joseph-Antoine Froelicher completely transformed the building between 1843 and 1863, creating the distinctive facade and interior layouts visible today. This extensive renovation significantly changed the appearance of the mansion and defines its current look.