The Hôtel d?Anvers was built in 1697, following the destruction of Dieppe by the Grande Bombarderie, an Anglo-Dutch attack which resulted in the near destruction of the town.
Its classical architecture is representative of the Ventabren style, the architect commissioned by Louis XIV to rebuild Dieppe: stores are located on the first floor and entresol, both arcades, topped by two storeys of living space. The façade is characterized by symmetry and references to antique architecture in the classical style: a triangular pediment and pilasters linking the floors, reminiscent of those found in Greek temples. It is assumed that the Hôtel d?Anvers belonged to a wealthy merchant, who lived in the mansion and stored his wares in the courtyard buildings.
In the early 20th century, the columns supporting the balconies were added when the building was refurbished. This addition echoes the painting by William Turner in 1826, during his stay in Dieppe, in which he added columns on either side of the porch of the Hôtel d?Anvers. Another architectural highlight is the frieze depicting a 17th-century view of Antwerp, located in the covered passageway overlooking the courtyard.
In 1991, the Hôtel d?Anvers and its frieze were added to the supplementary inventory of historic monuments.
18th Century, Official historical monument of France (MHC)
