In Seine-et-Marne, a stroll along the banks of the Seine offers unusual views of majestic mansions known as Affolantes. These villas, built between 1830 and 1914 and made famous by Marie-Françoise Laborde 's book, belonged to industrialists and merchants from Melun and Paris. They can be seen in Bois-le-Roi and Samois-sur-Seine. The sight of these houses, with their complex volumes, medieval turrets and majestic verandas, is a spectacle in itself.
A panorama of heterogeneous architecture
Marie-Françoise Laborde, architect and scholar on the subject, describes these homes as the symbol of 19th-century bourgeois ascendancy. They had a significant impact on the local economy. Artists and writers such as Rosa Bonheur and Stéphane Mallarmé also found inspiration here.
Discover Les Affolantes today:
If you want to make the most of this discovery, a stroll along the banks of Bois-le-Roi, La Rochette and Samois-sur-Seine is recommended. As you stroll along, you'll notice the mansions nestling on the hillsides, vestiges of an era when the bourgeoisie wanted to show off its prosperity.
In short, why choose this walk?
Among the beautiful emblematic residences to discover:
Le Clos-Barbeau, an iconic villa designed by architect Louis Périn in 1905. Sold in 1909 to Henri Monin, a left wing and walkway were added in 1912. Although the original plans for this extension remain uncertain, the resemblance between the two wings suggests Périn's imprint. The building was recently converted into apartments by Michel Frénot, who respected the original exterior appearance, while daring to add colorful touches to the interior woodwork. The house, with its varied ornamentation and no two identical windows, is remarkable for its architectural details. Inside, the design emphasizes natural lighting and exterior views, reflecting an artistic and modern vision of housing. The interplay between interior and exterior is the distinguishing feature of Le Clos-Barbeau.
The Chantemerle house, originally owned by Louis Périn's parents-in-law, was remodeled by him around 1902. The architect retained one wing and modified it, adding a broken pavilion roof and completely re-imagining the façade. Boldly combining medieval and Art Nouveau elements, Périn broke with classical conventions by favoring views over the landscape and playing with symmetry. He added a winter garden adorned with a marble mosaic, and transformed the turret with an octagonal crown and ceramic panels depicting a gilded tree with blackbirds. These architectural boldnesses, combined with its English garden and other outdoor features, make Chantemerle a singular and charming residence.
Émile Rochard, the famous Parisian theater critic and director, settled in La Ruelle, a former priory in Bois-le-Roi once occupied by monk-passers who held the right of way across the Seine. Rochard transformed the premises, retaining the chapel as a dwelling and adding composite buildings. Particularly noteworthy is a distinctive turret, with a half-timbered upper storey supported by brick pillars. Despite the architectural alterations, Rochard is best known for the grandiose parties he organized on his estate, attracting Parisian theater personalities including Sarah Bernhard. Although they did not collaborate professionally, their mutual acquaintance is undeniable and has become legendary.
Le Vieux Logis: Émile Rochard, wanting a home to match his aspirations, built an exceptional house in Bois-le-Roi, inspired by the 15th century. In 1897, he acquired the facade of a Gothic building in Amiens, much to the consternation of local residents. This structure, previously located on rue Fernel and having served as an inn and chimney sweep's house, was damaged by fire in 1890. Rochard relocated it to the banks of the Seine, adding his own touch. Despite its modifications, the house retains many medieval features. The polychromy of the building and certain decorative details are attributable to Rochard's imagination, reflecting a 19th-century vision of the Middle Ages. The result is a harmonious whole, worthy of a man of the theater with original taste.
In conclusion, when it comes to the cultural and architectural riches of Seine-et-Marne, it's impossible to overlook Les Affolantes. These mansions, witnesses to a bygone era, offer an insight into local and national history, as well as a pleasant stroll along the banks of the Seine. So don't miss this opportunity to enrich your culture and enjoy a beautiful day out. You can stroll along the water, discover the locks and take advantage of the Bois-le-Roi leisure park, which hides a lovely free beach.
To discover :
Bois-le-Roi leisure center (77): free swimming and year-round sports activities.
Just a stone’s throw from the Fontainebleau forest, the Bois-le-Roi leisure complex is best known for its free swimming spot. Throughout the year, it’s also the go-to place to practice a wide range of outdoor sports. [Read more]
Explore Samois-sur-Seine, one of the most beautiful villages in Seine-et-Marne, nestled in the heart of the Fontainebleau forest. Discover its heritage and cultural treasures, just an hour from Paris, on the banks of the Seine. [Read more]
Bourron-Marlotte, a charming village in Seine-et-Marne, reveals its rich artistic and architectural past. Between cobbled streets and sandstone walls, embark on a singular exploration of nature, history and culture. [Read more]
Located in the Seine-et-Marne region of France, Grez-sur-Loing is an unmissable getaway to recharge your batteries and discover a pretty village frozen in time. This medieval village is brimming with charm and history. Stroll, hike or canoe along the water's edge, it's a place well worth the detour. [Read more]
Get away from Paris with these 26 must-see getaways within 100 km of the capital. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
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Location
Bois-le-Roi in Seine-et-Marne
bois le roi
77590 Bois le Roi
Route planner
Prices
Free
Official website
www.ville-boisleroi.fr
Bois-le-Roi leisure center (77): free swimming and year-round sports activities.
Samois-sur-Seine, the charming Village de Caractère on the banks of the Seine and its heritage
Bourron-Marlotte in Seine-et-Marne: discover the artistic nugget and historical gem of a village
Grez-sur-Loing: Discover this superb authentic medieval village in Seine-et-Marne along the river
26 charming villages and strolls to discover near Paris, the treasures of Île-de-France
