CONSULATE HOUSE

This monument is one of the most remarkable buildings in the village of Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens. Built on the edge of the ramparts, it was built at the end of the 12th century by Peyre de Roquefixe and underwent modifications after 1346. Its chimney, covered with a curious circular mitron, dates from this period. During this period the building belonged to three distinct families. It is possible that the house may have been the common home at some point in its history, but this remains undetermined. Only part of the old house remains today: the ceremonial room, 16 m long, and the tower that it flanks. The remarkable quality of the painted ceiling that covers it has earned it a classification. Carried by four beams, the ceiling is of the false coffered type, a very rare type in Occitania. The presence of the coats of arms of Simon de Cramaud, bishop of Béziers from 1383 to 1385, and of his predecessor Guy de Malsec de Chalus, makes it possible to date the decoration to the years 1383-1384.