Hôtel Dubocage de Bléville, Private mansion in Le Havre, France.
Hôtel Dubocage de Bléville is a three-story private mansion in Le Havre featuring an L-shaped layout with approximately 20 windows. The structure combines slate, black flint, brick, and Caen stone in its construction.
Maritime trader Michel Joseph Dubocage acquired the property upon returning from China in 1727 and transformed it into a trading house. The building embodies the rise of the harbor as a major hub for international commerce.
The mansion reflects the town's deep connection to maritime commerce and distant voyages through its displayed collections. Chinese porcelain and glassware spanning several centuries tell the story of the global trade networks that shaped this region.
The building typically requires advance planning to visit since it is not freely accessible. Check ahead for any guided tours or special opening times that may be available.
The exterior displays a rare combination of regional flint, brick, and timber framing that preserves Norman building techniques. This craftsmanship is rarely seen in contemporary architecture, making it a window into the region's traditional construction heritage.
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