In the heart of Douai, France, the Hôtel de Warenghien de Flory stands as a testament to the elegance and architectural finesse of the late Ancien Régime and the 19th century. This historical edifice, with its rich past and remarkable design, invites visitors to step back in time and explore a piece of French heritage that has witnessed centuries of change and continuity.
The story of this distinguished building begins on July 27, 1754, when Georges Durand, an architect and entrepreneur, acquired the land on Rue de la Porte Morel. Durand, known for his work on fortifications and his role as captain of the locks and Fort de Scarpe, envisioned a grand residence that would reflect the burgeoning French taste of the era. The property was purchased from the director of fodder for the city of Douai, a transaction that set the stage for its transformation into a notable landmark.
Initially, the hôtel was intended to serve as a refuge for Bathilde de Saint Aldégonde, the abbess of the Royal Abbey of Flines. The abbey sought to replace their previous, less convenient refuge in Douai with a more suitable location. However, despite selling several parcels of land to finance this acquisition, the abbey's plans never materialized, and the building was subsequently rented to a magistrate of the Parliament of Douai.
The Hôtel de Warenghien de Flory is a striking example of the architectural style that flourished in Douai after it became the seat of the Parliament of Flanders in 1713. The building's street-facing façade is marked by a gresserie, a sandstone base, with two stories of tall windows framed by limestone arcades and jambs. The brick piers, coated with limewash, add a touch of French elegance to the structure, which aligns with the street in a departure from traditional Flemish designs.
In contrast to its austere street presence, the garden façade of the hôtel is more ornate, featuring Italian influences that suggest it may have been a later addition. This juxtaposition of styles reflects the evolving tastes and cultural exchanges of the period, offering visitors a glimpse into the dynamic architectural landscape of 18th-century Douai.
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In 1791, the building became a national asset and was acquired by Louis Joseph de Warenghien de Flory, a former Counselor at the Parliament of Flanders and later the Attorney General of the Nord department. His tenure was marked by political upheaval, including the Reign of Terror, but he managed to navigate these turbulent times, eventually returning to Douai to continue his legal career under the Empire.
The hôtel also served as the residence of his son-in-law, Lieutenant General Baron Louis-Joseph Lahure. Lahure, a military governor, left the hôtel in 1815 under dramatic circumstances, protected by a contingent of Cossacks and English officers as he fled to Brussels following an arrest warrant issued by the new French authorities.
Throughout the 20th century, the Hôtel de Warenghien de Flory faced numerous challenges, including requisition by German forces during both World Wars. During World War I, it housed German pilots, including the infamous Red Baron, Manfred von Richthofen. The building suffered significant damage during an American bombing raid in 1944, aimed at the nearby railway station, which destroyed the outbuildings.
Despite these trials, the hôtel was meticulously restored under the guidance of Gérard, Baron de Warenghien, in collaboration with the chief architect of historical monuments. This careful reconstruction ensured that the building's historical integrity was preserved for future generations.
Today, the Hôtel de Warenghien de Flory remains in the hands of the Warenghien family, a testament to their enduring connection to Douai. The current owner, Florence de Warenghien, continues to uphold the family's legacy, ensuring that the hôtel remains a vibrant part of the community's cultural fabric.
Visitors to Douai can explore the rich history and architectural beauty of the Hôtel de Warenghien de Flory, a building that not only tells the story of a family but also encapsulates the broader narrative of French history and heritage. This remarkable hôtel invites you to discover its past and appreciate the timeless elegance that has made it a cherished monument in the heart of Douai.
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