How many secrets are hidden behind this impressive facade? This is the facade de l’Hôtel de Montmorency. It stands as a silent witness to centuries of Parisian history. This is not just one building. The name Hôtel de Montmorency actually refers to several Parisian hôtels particuliers. These hôtels once belonged to the House of Montmorency.
The Hôtel de Montmorency we see here has a fascinating story. It is linked to a powerful family and some intriguing characters. Originally, the Hôtel de Montmorency was located on rue Sainte-Avoye. That street is now known as rue du Temple. Jean Bullant built it in the mid-16th century for Anne de Montmorency. Anne was the Connétable de France.
Inside, the Hôtel de Montmorency boasted a gallery decorated with frescoes. Nicolò dell’Abbate created these frescoes in 1557. There was also a bathing suite. Théophile de Viau, a famous poet, once lived here. Later, François Mansart added a new wing. This was in 1632. It was built for Henri II de Montmorency, but Henri was executed the same year. His possessions were sold.
Nicolas Fouquet, superintendent of finances, lived here from 1651 to 1658. The Hôtel de Montmorency then became the Hôtel de Mesmes. Pierre Bullet and Germain Boffrand transformed it after 1704. Louis XVI acquired it in 1780. He used it for the direction of financial revenues. In 1826, a M. Cogniet bought the building. He had it demolished and divided the land. Only a few vestiges remain. These include the 18th-century facade on the street.
Now, look closely at the facade de l’Hôtel de Montmorency. It stands on rue de Montmorency. It is sometimes referred to as the Hôtel Thiroux de Lailly. This is because it is located on rue de Montmorency. However, it is not directly linked to the Montmorency family. The current building dates back to 1739-1741. Jean-Louis Thiroux de Lailly commissioned it. Michel Tannevot was the architect.
The interior once featured woodwork. Nicolas Pineau, the ornamentalist, sculpted it. Some of this woodwork is now at Waddesdon Manor in Great Britain. A neoclassical fountain is in the garden. Today, the Hôtel de Montmorency belongs to the state. It houses various public finance services. Take note of the courtyard and the first two flights of stairs. These have been listed as historical monuments since 1925.
As you stand before the facade de l’Hôtel de Montmorency, consider its long and varied history. It has witnessed royal intrigue, artistic creation, and revolutionary change. The facade de l’Hôtel de Montmorency is more than just a building. It is a portal to the past. It is a reminder of the people and events that shaped Paris.