Initially a building for politics and finance, the Manoir de la Cour became a manor house and then a noble residence, was later a smallholding and then became used for working class accommodation. Quite a career!

A seat of power in the Middle Ages

Very well preserved

Dating back to the late 13th Century, the Manoir de la Cour is one of very few non-fortified civil constructions built at that time in the Kingdom of France that remains in such good condition today.

Built for canons

The building is the result of an ambitious undertaking by the cathedral chapter of Le Mans. These descendants of the aristocrats of Maine ran a prosperous business using the assets of the chapter. This building symbolised the culmination of ecclesiastical power in Asnières-sur-Vègre.

Vue extérieure du Manoir de la Cour

The internal architecture has some surprising features

An amazing building

The manor, which was home to canons in the Middle Ages, was built in one go.

It has remarkable architectural features for the period, which take into account:

  • comfort (latrines)
  • water (basin on wall),
  • light (sculpted windows, window seats)
  • warmth (fireplaces and warming oven).

Wall paintings

The canons no doubt commissioned the superb wall paintings like the ones in the neighbouring Saint-Hilaire church. They can be seen on the first floor.

Architecture du Manoir

Manoir de la Cour in the 21st Century

A 20-year restoration period

The restoration campaign began in 1995 at the same time as archaeological digs, which provided a wealth of information about the site. Refurbishment began in 2013.

The Manoir de la Cour is about to enter a new era, with yet another role to play.

Fresque Historique

Visit the exhibition and find our more about the many lives of the Manoir de la Cour.