Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil: A historical treasure in the Marais district of Paris
Where is the Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil, and why is it famous?
The Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil, also known as the Ambassadeurs de Hollande, is a private mansion in the historic Marais district of Paris' 4th arrondissement. It stands proudly at the intersection of rue Vieille-du-Temple and rue des Guillemites, and is served by the Saint-Paul metro station. The hotel is famous for its rich history and unique architectural features.
Why does it bear the name “Ambassadeurs de Hollande”?
The origin of the name “Hôtel des Ambassadeurs de Hollande” gives rise to a number of theories. One suggests that the hotel served as the residence of the Dutch ambassador. Another is that, at the time of the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, Marcus Guitton, chaplain to the Dutch embassy, organized Reformed worship in the hotel chapel, which was permitted in Protestant embassy chapels.
What is the history of Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil?
The Hôtel de Rieux once stood on the hotel's present site, and was inhabited by such historical figures as Jean II de Rieux and Pierre de Rieux. It was also the scene of the assassination of Louis I d'Orléans, brother of King Charles VI, in 1407. The hotel was also owned by François de Hardy and Claude Miotte.
Denis Amelot de Chaillou bought the hotel in 1638 and undertook a major reconstruction. His son, Jean-Baptiste Amelot, vicomte de Bisseuil, continued the work. The hotel remained in the Amelot family until its acquisition by Claude Miotte in 1711.
What is the architecture of the Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil?
The hotel's architecture is the work of architect Pierre Cottard, who was in the service of Louis XIV. The hotel is particularly noteworthy for its two courtyards, rather than the usual “courtyard and garden” layout. The first courtyard, narrow and elegant, features a stone balcony and is accessible from rue Vieille-du-Temple. The second courtyard is larger and linked to the first by a vaulted passageway. This courtyard features four niches adorned with statues representing various virtues, as well as dawn and dusk. A terrace on the second floor overlooks the second courtyard.
The façade overlooking rue Vieille-du-Temple features a magnificent bas-relief by Thomas Regnaudin, depicting two renowned figures. The facades are adorned with sundials, and numerous sculptures and decorations adorn the walls. The architectural details are impressive, testifying to the refinement of the period.
How does the interior of the Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil look?
The hotel's interior is just as impressive as its exterior. It boasts some exceptional rooms, with magnificent woodwork, paintings and ceilings. The Galerie de Psyché is particularly noteworthy, with a ceiling painted by Michel Corneille l'Ancien depicting the Apotheosis of Psyche and other mythological scenes.
An Italian-style bedroom was reconstructed in the 20th century, retaining the original fireplace and a ceiling painted by Louis de Boullogne. The hotel's interior is a veritable treasure trove of art and history.
What is the future of the Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil?
The hotel has had several owners over the years, and in 2010 was purchased by the real estate company Acanthe Développement. Restoration work was undertaken from 2014 to 2016 to preserve its historic features. In 2017, it was sold to a Belgian investor who plans to create a luxury hotel.
Summary return of the private mansions of the Marais