Laurens De Beaujeu Mansion

Laurens De Beaujeu Mansion: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide to Arles Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion, or Hôtel Laurens de Beaujeu, is a distinguished historic residence nestled in the heart of Arles, France. This grand hôtel particulier is a testament to the city’s aristocratic past and its unique blend of architectural styles. Renowned for its monumental facades, noble lineage, and pivotal role in Arles’ urban and social history, the mansion is an essential stop for anyone interested in the city’s heritage.

This detailed guide will provide an in-depth exploration of the Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion, including its origins, architectural features, noble connections, visiting hours, ticketing details, accessibility, and practical travel tips. Whether you’re drawn by the grandeur of Arles’ historic sites, its vibrant cultural life, or seeking essential information for your visit, this article is your comprehensive resource for discovering one of the city’s most significant historical gems (Arles Tourism City Strolls, POP: la plateforme ouverte du patrimoine).

The Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion: A Jewel of Arles
Historical Context and Noble Legacy
Architectural Features and Artistic Heritage
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Recommended Itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Your Visit
Sources and Further Reading

The Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion: A Jewel of Arles

Located centrally at 22-24 rue Frédéric-Mistral and 25 rue de la République, the Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion stands as a remarkable example of 17th–18th-century Provençal architecture. Its alternative historical names—Hôtel de Vernon and Hôtel du Roure—reflect the property’s evolving ownership among Arles’ elite families. The mansion’s imposing facade, elegant stonework, and monumental entrance portal are eye-catching highlights on city heritage walks (Arles Tourism City Strolls).

While the building’s interior remains private and accessible only during select heritage events or via guided tours, its exterior is a key architectural landmark within Arles’ UNESCO-listed historic center. Visitors can admire its harmonious proportions, grand entrance, and the subtle interplay of Renaissance, classical French, and regional Provençal styles.

Historical Context and Noble Legacy

The Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion was originally commissioned in the late 17th century by the Laurens de Beaujeu family, prominent barons and influential figures in Arles’ civic and cultural life (Jean Gallian Genealogy). The mansion symbolized the family’s social standing and was an epicenter for managing their affairs and hosting distinguished gatherings.

Over time, the mansion passed through the hands of other notable families, including the du Roure and the Quiqueran de Beaujeu, each contributing to its architectural evolution and reinforcing its role as a symbol of Arles’ aristocratic prosperity (CCFr BnF). Members of these families held high offices, including governorships and positions within the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, further enhancing the mansion’s historical significance (Musée Réattu).

Architectural Features and Artistic Heritage

Exterior Grandeur

The mansion’s facade, constructed from warm Provençal limestone, features symmetrical window arrangements, restrained classical ornamentation, and a monumental entrance inspired by Michelangelo and Pierre le Muet’s treatise on architecture. This commanding porte cochère, added during 19th-century renovations under the du Roure family, is a hallmark of urban aristocratic ambition (CCFr BnF).

Wrought-iron balconies, decorative cornices, and finely carved stonework further exemplify the wealth and taste of its noble owners. The mansion’s exterior harmonizes with the historic streetscape and nearby Roman and medieval monuments (Arles Guide).

Interior Layout

While public access to the interior is restricted, typical features of mansions of this era include a grand entrance hall, ceremonial salons, ornate staircases, and private apartments arranged around a tranquil courtyard. Stucco decoration, painted ceilings, and period furnishings would have adorned the rooms, reflecting the artistic inclinations of the Laurens de Beaujeu and Quiqueran de Beaujeu families (POP: la plateforme ouverte du patrimoine).

Artistic and Cultural Connections

The mansion is intimately tied to Arles’ artistic reputation. Family members were prominent patrons of the arts and religious institutions, with portraits and artifacts now housed in the Musée Réattu (Musée Réattu). Their influence extended to civic architecture and the city’s transformation during the early modern period.

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location

Address: 22-24 rue Frédéric-Mistral and 25 rue de la République, Arles (Mapcarta)

Visiting Hours

General Access: The mansion is not regularly open to the public, as it is a private residence.
Special Events: Interior visits are possible during annual heritage events such as Journées du Patrimoine, or as part of select guided tours.
Exterior Viewing: The facade can be admired at any time from the street.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets: Access to the interior (when available) is included in guided tour packages organized by the Arles Tourist Office (Arles Tourism).
Booking: Advance reservation is required for interior tours and highly recommended for popular periods, especially during summer.
Tour Duration: Guided visits usually last 2–4 hours and often include other highlights of Arles’ historic center.

Accessibility

Mobility: The exterior is accessible from the public street. For interior visits, accessibility may be limited due to stairs and uneven surfaces; please inquire in advance about arrangements.

Nearby Attractions and Recommended Itinerary

The Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion is ideally situated for exploring other historical and cultural highlights in Arles:

Roman Amphitheater: One of the best-preserved Roman arenas in France
Church of St. Trophime: Renowned for its Romanesque portal and cloister
Musée Réattu: Fine arts museum in another historic mansion, with connections to the Laurens de Beaujeu family (Musée Réattu)
Place de la République: Central square surrounded by civic landmarks
LUMA Arles: Contemporary art center in a striking modern tower (LUMA Arles)

Combine your visit with a heritage walk or thematic guided tour to gain deeper insights into Arles’ layered history and architectural wonders (Arles Guide, Empty Nest Explorers).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion open to the public?
A: The mansion is generally private; interior visits are only possible during special heritage events or by joining certain guided tours.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The facade is viewable at any time. For interior visits, check the Arles Tourist Office website or event listings for specific dates and times.

Q: How do I book a guided tour?
A: Tours are organized by the Arles Tourist Office. Book online or visit the office in person at 9 Boulevard des Lices (Arles Tourism).

Q: Is the mansion accessible for people with reduced mobility?
A: The exterior is accessible; interior areas may have limited accessibility due to historic features. Contact the tourist office for details.

Q: Can I visit the mansion independently?
A: Interior access is only through guided tours or during special events.

Q: Are photographs permitted?
A: Photography is permitted of the exterior. For interiors, check with guides—flash and tripods may be restricted.

Planning Your Visit

Advance Booking: Due to the limited availability of interior tours, reserve your place well in advance.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon offers optimal lighting for photographing the facade.
Combine Activities: Pair your mansion visit with explorations of Arles’ Roman sites, museums, and local cafés on Boulevard des Lices (Explore Your Bucket List).
Cultural Events: Plan your trip around Les Rencontres d’Arles (photography festival) or Roman Days for an enriched experience (Rencontres d’Arles).
Accessibility and Amenities: Public transport, parking, and local amenities are nearby.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

The Laurens de Beaujeu Mansion is a highlight of Arles’ noble and architectural legacy. Its striking facade, storied history, and central location make it a must-see for heritage enthusiasts. While interior visits are rare, the mansion’s presence enriches any exploration of Arles’ historic center. Complement your visit with expert-led tours, local museums, and nearby monuments to fully appreciate the city’s cultural tapestry (POP: la plateforme ouverte du patrimoine, Arles Tourism City Strolls).

Stay updated on events and visiting opportunities by downloading the Audiala app and following Arles’ cultural channels.