House Albi (81)

A 13th century village house, with an inner courtyard, in Cordes-sur-Ciel, one of France’s most beautiful medieval villages.
Cordes-sur-Ciel, less than 1½ hours from Toulouse and 20 minutes from Albi, is one of the biggest tourist attractions as regards European Heritage. Constructed in the 13th century, it has a wealth of sumptuous houses and narrow, paved streets. This timeless little town, in the midst of the Tarn department, is set in totally unspoilt countryside, dotted with numerous medieval villages harbouring architectural gems.
This house stands on the main, central street in Cordes-sur-Ciel. Characteristic of the town, the paved street comes into view once through the robust medieval gates. The listed covered market place is very near to the house. A large medieval gateway provides access to the inner courtyard preceding the main entrance. Built in the 13th century, the more modest-looking, dressed stone facade has undergone works on more than one occasion, notably on the second floor where there is a large, partially sealed, casement window.
The houseAlthough this house spans three levels, its living space is contained on the first and second floors. Some works have been carried out, but only full rehabilitation works will breathe new life into this home. The third floor, with its very high roofing framework, is yet another superb area awaiting conversion.
Ground floor
A large, studded door provides access to a corridor. On one side, a stairway leads to a cellar which extends under the full surface area of the house; on the other, the radiating steps of a spiral stairway, bearing witness to the 13th century, go up to the first floor.
First floor
A corridor provides access, on one side, to a kitchen and a laundry room as well as to a large living room which has been partially restored. The two main rooms look out over the valley. The large lounge opens on to a dining room. Floors are covered with wide stone tiles contrasting with the ceiling joists and the fireplaces. The rooms, steeped in light, look out over the Tarn Valley.
Second floor
The stairway continues up: its robust steps and the dressed stone walls bear witness to the age of the building. The landing gives access to a medieval door, opening on to a corridor. A first door opens into two large bedrooms and a bathroom. The rooms are spacious and the ceilings high: on one side a large bedroom and its shower room. This level is enhanced by its ceremonial room, where everything has been preserved: dressed stone walls, a monumental fireplace and ogive windows, only the floor awaits restoration.
Third floor
This level has not yet been rehabilitated. Its large surface area and its ever-present original materials reveal the authenticity of the room.
Cellar
The cellar spans two levels.
Cottage
When entering via the carriage gate, a stairway leads to an annexe building which awaits full restoration works. It comprises two vast rooms.