A House from 1478
Maison de Jeanne, located in Sévérac-le-Château, France, was constructed in 1478, making it one of the oldest houses in Aveyron. Built with timber framing and cob walls, its design features upper floors that extend beyond the lower floor, a style believed to be influenced by medieval tax laws or jettying techniques.
The Forgotten House
The last known resident was an artist named Jeanne, from whom the house takes its name. It had been vacant since the 1970s, and the municipality of Sévérac purchased it in 1995 to prevent further decay. Renovation efforts began in 2019, led by architect Philippe Blondin, with specialists restoring the roof, stone walls, and interior plaster.
An Internet Sensation
In 2017, a photograph of the house was posted online, drawing over 1.5 million views in two days. Social media users incorrectly claimed it was built between the 12th and 13th centuries and even called it the oldest house in France or the world, adding to its growing online fame.
In France, Maison de Jeanne, built in 1478, stands as one of Aveyron’s oldest houses. Its timber framing and cob walls feature upper floors jutting over the lower level, a design tied to medieval tax laws or jettying techniques. A true medieval marvel.🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/kL9mXgUrO4
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) March 19, 2025