Hôtel du Vieux-Raisin, Toulouse

Here is another Italian Renaissance palace. The Hotel du Vieux-Raisin is a product of the 16th century. One of the most attractive private mansions in town, it was built for Beringuier Maynier. Beringuier was a law professor, a lord and a capitol of the City. The hotel was erected on the plot of a building demolished for the occasion.

The demolished building had been a part of the Hotel Dahus next door. In 1515 M. Maynier took over. He added a new structure to that portion of the old house still standing. The courtyard was separated from the garden, a staircase tower erected on each side. The house was extended, with two wings. There was a great tower in the courtyard.

Between 1547 and 1591 the house was owned by Jean Burnet and Bishop Pierre de Lancrau, respectively. The entrance was given a portico featuring Doric columns. Pierre, who owned the property from 1580 to 1591, added windows in the courtyard and made the tower even higher. Sculpted motifs are all over the frames with references to Royal buildings.