Hôtel de Bardine

The Hôtel de Bardine is a historical private mansion in Angoulême featuring a prominent colonnade across its main facade. The building stands in the center of the city on rue de Beaulieu and displays carefully proportioned classical architectural design.

The mansion was built in 1782 by Louis Thomas, Lord of Bardines, incorporating architectural elements influenced by Saint Petersburg style from that era. This connection to Eastern European design was unusual among French noble residences and reveals the broad influences that shaped wealthy builders' choices.

The mansion reflects a blend of French and Russian design influences visible in its decorative elements and column details. This architectural choice shows how European styles crossed borders and shaped the taste of wealthy families during that era.

The mansion is not regularly open to the public, but visitors can see inside during the annual European Heritage Days in September with the current owner as guide. Plan your visit around these special opening dates if you wish to explore the interior.

In the early 1800s, the building briefly served as a bishop's residence before becoming a family home. This shift shows how such grand houses changed hands and purpose as circumstances evolved.