Hôtel d'Avaray

The Hôtel d'Avaray on Rue de Grenelle displays classical French architecture with ornate facades and traditional design details throughout. The building preserves the elegant proportions typical of an 18th-century Parisian mansion.

Built between 1718 and 1723 by architect Jean-Baptiste Leroux, the mansion served as a family residence for generations. In the 20th century it changed ownership and eventually became the residence of a foreign ambassador.

The interior displays Belgian tapestries and Dutch paintings from the 17th century, showing how French and Dutch artistic traditions came together. These collections tell a story of artistic exchange across borders.

The building now serves as an ambassador's residence and is not open to the public on regular days. However, it opens its doors during European Heritage Days when visitors can explore the interior.

The mansion once housed one of Paris's smallest paintings, measuring just a few centimeters across. This tiny artwork was accidentally painted over during renovations and has been lost since then.

Location: Paris

Inception: 1723

Architects: Jean-Baptiste Leroux

GPS coordinates: 48.85610,2.32218

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:02