Maison Henri II, La Rochelle
Historic Building in La Rochelle
The Maison Henri II, also known as Hôtel Pontard or Maison de Diane de Poitiers, is one of the most intriguing architectural gems in La Rochelle and one of the best places to visit in La Rochelle for lovers of Renaissance art and design. Built around 1555 for Hugues Pontard, the King's attorney in Saintonge, it exemplifies the refined aesthetics of the French Renaissance. Despite its name, the house has no historical connection to King Henri II; instead, the title reflects the style and ornamentation typical of his reign.
Today, Maison Henri II is often visited on walking tours of La Rochelle because of its extraordinary façade, accessible courtyard, and its role as a centre for contemporary arts. Although the interior is not open to the public, the building remains a captivating stop, offering a striking contrast to the city's medieval and Enlightenment-era landmarks.
Table of Contents
History and Significance of Maison Henri II
Construction of Maison Henri II began around 1555 at the request of Hugues Pontard, a prominent legal official. The house's design reflects the humanist ideals and artistic innovations of the French Renaissance, blending classical motifs with imaginative sculptural detail. Its façade, richly adorned with carved medallions, bucrania, friezes, and pilasters, demonstrates the period's fascination with symmetry, perspective, and decorative storytelling.
Over the centuries, the building evolved with the city's needs. In the 17th century, it housed the Bureau des Finances, and later served as the meeting place for the municipal council until 1748. In the 19th century, Maison Henri II became a private residence and commercial property before eventually being purchased by the city in 1894. Restoration campaigns preserved its intricate stonework and architectural identity, ensuring its survival into the modern era.
Since 2013, the building has served as the home of the Centre Intermondes, an international artistic residency dedicated to contemporary creativity. This modern use, juxtaposed with the Renaissance façade, keeps Maison Henri II alive as both a historic monument and a space for cultural innovation.
Things to See and Do in Maison Henri II
While the interior is closed to the public, the courtyard remains accessible and offers the best vantage point for admiring the façade’s exceptional craftsmanship. Visitors can study the two pavilions of differing heights, connected by a two-storey gallery and loggia. This theatrical arrangement creates the illusion of a grand palace, despite the building’s relatively modest scale.
The façade is the main attraction, richly decorated with medallions, carved heads, bucrania, and classical motifs that reveal Renaissance interest in antiquity. This spot is one of the best places to see in Maison Henri II if you enjoy fine stone carving and architectural illusion. The narrow corridors and decorative elements, though inaccessible, are visible enough from the courtyard to hint at the building's ingenious use of perspective.
Interpretive panels often provide historical context about the building’s use and its significance in La Rochelle’s architectural heritage. Visitors may also encounter artists in residence or temporary artistic displays associated with the Centre Intermondes.
How to Get to Maison Henri II
Maison Henri II sits on Rue des Augustins, close to La Rochelle's historic centre and within easy walking distance of major attractions. The nearest airport is La Rochelle-Île de Ré Airport, offering domestic and seasonal international routes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to La Rochelle on Booking.com.
The main railway station in La Rochelle provides direct connections to Paris, Nantes, Bordeaux, and regional destinations, making rail travel a convenient option. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.
Traveling by car is straightforward, with public parking located around the edge of the old town. From these car parks, Maison Henri II is a short walk through pedestrian-friendly streets. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Practical Tips on Visiting Maison Henri II
- Suggested tips: Take time to study the sculptural details on the façade, which reveal new motifs the longer you look.
- Best time to visit: Daylight hours for the best visibility of the carvings.
- Entrance fee: Free to enter the courtyard.
- Opening hours: Courtyard usually accessible during the day; interior closed to the public.
- Official website: https://www.centremondes.com
- How long to spend: 10-20 minutes.
- Accessibility: Courtyard accessible; uneven stones may present minor challenges.
- Facilities: Shops and cafés nearby; no facilities on-site.
- Photography tip: Position yourself at an angle in the courtyard to capture both pavilions and the gallery.
- Guided tours: Included in some heritage walking-tours.
- Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and bakeries within the old town streets.
Where to Stay close to Maison Henri II
There are several excellent options within an easy walk of the site. Hôtel Saint Nicolas provides a stylish stay near the Old Port. For boutique charm in the historic centre, consider Un Hôtel En Ville. For those preferring modern amenities and harbour views, Mercure La Rochelle Vieux-Port is a strong choice.
Is Maison Henri II Worth Visiting?
Yes, Maison Henri II is absolutely worth visiting. Its theatrical Renaissance façade, rich sculptural details, and atmospheric courtyard make it one of the top sights in La Rochelle for architecture lovers. Even without interior access, the building offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic ambition of the 16th century and the city's long-standing appreciation for culture.
What Other Travellers Say...
Maison Henri II at 11B Rue des Augustins is a Renaissance-style building with ornate architecture centered around an attractive courtyard; visitors report the courtyard and garden are accessible but the interior is generally not open, and the site now functions as a residence for the Centre Intermondes with a plaque noting ownership by Caisse d'Épargne et de Prévoyance de La Rochelle.
FAQs for Visiting Maison Henri II
Nearby Attractions to Maison Henri II
- Porte de la Grosse-Horloge: The elegant historic gateway between the port and old town.
- Vieux-Port: La Rochelle's lively and historic harbourfront.
- Hôtel de Ville: The fortified Gothic-Renaissance town hall.
- Tour Saint-Nicolas: The impressive medieval defensive tower.
- Tour de la Lanterne: The remarkable medieval lighthouse with prisoner graffiti.
The Maison Henri II appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting La Rochelle!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!
Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Hôtel de Ville (0.1) km
Town Hall - Cathédrale Saint-Louis (0.1) km
Cathedral - Rue des Templiers (0.2) km
Historic Site - Musée du Nouveau Monde (0.2) km
Museum - Cloître des Dames Blanches (0.2) km
Church - Porte de la Grosse-Horloge (0.3) km
City Gate - Musée Rochelais d’Histoire Protestante (0.3) km
Museum - Le Bunker de La Rochelle (0.3) km
Museum - Marché Central (0.3) km
Market - La Rochelle Vieux Port (0.4) km
Port
