Montpellier and its historical and architectural heritage

Montpellier is one of the most beautiful cities in France, with stunning architecture from earliest 12th century right up to the modern day. Much of the Ecusson or central Historical area still has many original buildings, renovated with careful attention thanks to the support from the Mairie of Montpellier, determined to keep as much of the heritage of Montpellier intact.

Over two centuries a large number of private mansions were built in the city, homes that were signs of their owner's prosperity. Noblemen and rich traders built nearly one hundred such luxurious buildings in the centre. Huge gate entrances, large, luminous interior courtyards, forged iron railings lined stone staircases leading up to vast apartments…

During the 17th century great architects such as Simon Levesville and d'Aviler brought major changes to medieval dwellings. The austere façades contrasted with the monumental staircase that was adorned with balustrades and which led onto an internal courtyard. It became the symbol of social distinction.

The main feature of the 18th century was the embellishment of the façades due to a generation of architects from the Languedoc, known as the Giral. Façades gradually became less sober and balconies started to boast elaborate ironworks.

Along with the bourgeoisie's ascension to power and its demand for profit, the Private Mansions became income properties. The façades and the staircases became adorned with exuberant décor, sometimes even ostentatious, inspired by the Haussman style which broke with the tradition of Montpellier. The city became richer and the first private mansions were built. This frenetic building continued until the next century, helping to completely change the face of the city. Montpellier now has over 70 private mansions, including the "Hôtels de Grâves, St Côme, Mirman..." and many more

These mansions are closed to the public, but appartments of all sizes often come up for sale through Styles Immobilier, the specialist estate agency based in the heart of the Ecusson (historiacl centre) Styles helps its customers find something really special, full of original features from a loft style top floor appartment to a large "maison de ville" ,as well as original stone built properties in the surrounding areas of Montpellier.