Denis Papin's House: A Glimpse into Blois' Past
Explore the Hôtel de Villebresme in Blois, a captivating 15th-century Gothic house with a unique footbridge, offering a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage and intriguing past.
The so-called Denis Papin's House, more accurately known as the Hôtel de Villebresme, is a captivating historical landmark in Blois, France. Despite the misnomer – it's uncertain if Denis Papin, the famous inventor, ever resided here – the late 15th-century Gothic building offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage. Its unique design, featuring two buildings connected by a wooden footbridge adorned with intricate carvings, makes it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Located on Rue Pierre de Blois, this historical monument, listed since 1928, stands as a testament to Blois' vibrant past, inviting visitors to explore its charming details and imagine life in the late Middle Ages. While a private property, the exterior alone is worth the visit, offering a picturesque scene and a tangible connection to Blois' historical fabric.
A brief summary to Denis Papin's House
- Rue Pierre de Blois, Blois, 41000, FR
Local tips
- Observe the intricate wooden footbridge connecting the two buildings, a unique architectural feature.
- Take photos from across the street to capture the full facade and the charming streetscape.
- Combine your visit with a walk through the historic district to see other nearby landmarks.
Getting There
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Walking
Denis Papin's House is located on Rue Pierre de Blois in the heart of the old town. From the Royal Château of Blois, walk northeast along Rue du Palais, then turn right onto Rue Pierre de Blois. The house will be on your left within a few minutes. From the Blois-Chambord train station, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head southwest on Avenue de la Gare, then turn left onto Rue du Commerce. Continue onto Rue des Cordeliers, then turn right onto Rue Pierre de Blois. The house will be on your right. Note that the route involves a slight uphill walk.
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Public Transport
The Azalys bus network serves Blois. From the Blois-Chambord train station (Gare SNCF), take any bus that stops near the city center. Get off at a stop near the Château de Blois or Place Louis XII, such as 'Château' or 'Halle aux Grains'. From there, it's a short walk to Rue Pierre de Blois. A single bus fare is approximately €3.20, payable on the bus with cash or credit card.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis are readily available at the Blois-Chambord train station. A taxi or ride-share from the station to Denis Papin's House will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost an estimated €6-€8. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Denis Papin's House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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