Maison La Rivette, nestled in the charming town of Caluire-et-Cuire, is a hidden gem in the Rhône department of France. This splendid house, with its rich history and architectural beauty, offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Its evolution from a modest country house to a grand maison de plaisance is a testament to the changing tastes and fortunes of its various owners over the centuries.
The origins of Maison La Rivette date back to 1635, when it was a simple country house with just four rooms spread over two floors and an adjoining stable. By 1669, the property had expanded to include vineyards and willow trees, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the region. However, it was in the mid-18th century that the house began to take on the elegant appearance it boasts today. The addition of a French-style façade, terraced gardens, and a sophisticated hydraulic system transformed it into a true maison de plaisance.
The current structure of Maison La Rivette is a square plan building, characterized by its impressive western façade. This façade, with its nine bays spread over two floors, is preceded by a grand staircase. The central section, featuring three bays, is capped with a triangular pediment, adding a touch of classical elegance to the building. To the south of the main courtyard lies an independent chapel, which once served as the resting place of Charles Merlino.
The gardens of Maison La Rivette are a highlight of any visit. Once extending all the way to the Saône River, they feature a delightful array of water features, including a fountain, a waterfall, and a grotto made of rockwork. The terraced gardens are connected by monumental double staircases, creating a sense of grandeur and elegance. On the eastern side of the courtyard, a nymphaeum borders a bean-shaped basin, adding to the serene and picturesque atmosphere of the gardens.
Maison La Rivette has seen many owners throughout its long history, each leaving their mark on the property. The first known owner, Claude Fevret du Chazard, held the house in 1635. Over the years, it passed through the hands of numerous families, including the Ribauds, the Fautels, and the Touches. In 1675, François Dufaure, the treasurer of Ponts et Chaussées of the Généralité of Lyon, acquired the property and faced legal challenges for using a noble title he did not possess.
In the 18th century, the house was owned by Jean-Baptiste Pitra, a goldsmith who is believed to have commissioned the sumptuous renovations that earned the house the nickname La Folie Pitra. Later, in 1786, Charles Merlino purchased the property, and it remained in his family until the early 19th century. In 1816, François Anginieur, a Lyon merchant, acquired the house and added an English-style park and an orangery.
In the 20th century, the property began to deteriorate, and by 1972, it was acquired by the Hospices Civils de Lyon. Today, Maison La Rivette is a co-ownership, preserving its historical and architectural significance while adapting to modern needs.
Maison La Rivette is recognized as a historic monument, with its garden, nymphaeum, chapel, portal, and the great hall on the ground floor all listed for their historical and architectural value. The house's elevation and roof are also protected, ensuring that this beautiful property remains a cherished part of France's cultural heritage.
Reverend George M. Musgrave, in his 1857 journal A Pilgrimage into Dauphiné, described Maison La Rivette as a place of enchanting beauty. He marveled at the orange and lemon trees in blossom, magnolias, oleanders, and a variety of fragrant honeysuckles that adorned the gardens. The clipped evergreen avenues, terraced gardens, and Grecian statues created a scene reminiscent of Versailles. Musgrave also noted the fountains that played at the touch of a spring, the enchanting views of the river, and the grand courts leading to conservatories, greenhouses, and fish ponds. His vivid description captures the essence of Maison La Rivette as a place of refined elegance and natural beauty.
In conclusion, Maison La Rivette is not just a house; it is a journey through time, a testament to the changing tastes and fortunes of its various owners, and a place of enchanting beauty. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a serene and picturesque escape, Maison La Rivette offers a captivating experience that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
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