Brioude inhabitants have at all times opted for stone buildings as opposed to wood although the latter is plentiful in this region. A few half timbered buildings remain.

The "Maison de Mandrin" is set in a beautiful gothic half timbered building dating back to the 15 th century. It more than likely belonged to a Count Canon. It runs along the North border of la rue de Ganivelle which a roman arcade (remains of one of the gates of the Chapter's surrounding walls) encroaches on.

In a large room on the ground floor, a most beautifully adorned vault ceiling with heraldic keys can be seen. The ribbed vault flows onto moulded culs-de-lampe.

It came into history on August 26, 1745, when the renowned smuggler Mandrin and his troop assaulted it and robbed the tobacco warehouse it was then.

Open all year round, it is now a rotating arts gallery, as well as the head office of "La Société Savante de l'Almanach de Brioude ". Its annual publication gives an insight into Brivadois' history.

Find out more :

MAISON DE MANDRIN
Rue du 4 September 43100 BRIOUDE
Tel/Fax : 04 71 74 94 59
Opening times and tariffs

Brioude