House of the Seneschal

The house of the Seneschal

The Agen audio-guided tour has you discover the house of the Seneschal, as little known as it is emblematic: it is said to be the oldest civil dwelling of the city. To see it more closely, go up Rue Puits-du-Saumon, as far as number 17.

A dwelling full of mystery

Dated to the fourteenth century thanks to its Florentine influences, the house of the Seneschal keeps a great mystery as to its origin and its name. Although it is said to be of the Seneschal, no document has been able to prove that it served as the residence of the administrative and judicial representative of the king in the city. All the more so as these high agents of power did not necessarily lodge in a dwelling of this type. Its name thus remains a delightful enigma.

What there is to see

The house of the Seneschal charms with its elegant Florentine influences, rare in the region, which betray a refined taste and exchanges with Italy. Its façade, to be discovered at number 17 of Rue Puits-du-Saumon, constitutes a precious testimony of the medieval civil architecture of Agen. A discreet but fascinating stop for lovers of old stones.

Practical information

The house of the Seneschal is at number 17 of Rue Puits-du-Saumon, in the historic centre of Agen. A private dwelling, it can be contemplated from the street, along the walk and on the level.

Why is the house of the Seneschal remarkable?

It is said to be the oldest civil dwelling of Agen, dated to the fourteenth century thanks to its Florentine influences.

Why does its name remain a mystery?

No document has proved that it served as the residence of the seneschal, the king's representative in the city; its name remains an enigma.