Le Prieuré de Rouxmesnil-Bouteilles

Curious to get off the beaten track of historical heritage, I went to meet monuments that we meet every day along our departmental or national roads.
Located near Dieppe on the Alabaster coast, the priory of Rouxmesnil-Bouteilles is a remarkable monument by its architecture. The Department of Seine-Maritime, wishing to highlight its rural heritage has awarded its "Label Patrimoine Rural" to the priory of Rouxmesnil-Bouteilles for its architectural and historical qualities.
This former priory has now become the town hall of Rouxmesnil-Bouteilles, a commune born from the merger of two villages in 1822.
On the main road, crossing the village, I see the priory on my left. When I get close to the entrance gate I approach the wooden sign indicating the labeling of the place with a history.
I am very pleased to have information on this priory that I see before me, nestled in a green setting. The contrast of the dwelling covered with red tiles and light shades for the sandstone/flint assembly, is of the most beautiful effect. The external facings are remarkable! The design of the facade is regular and completes a harmonious volumetry of the whole building. I can't wait to get closer to this magnificent building to appreciate all the details.
I enter the courtyard through the large gate with its wrought iron doors and walk along an arched path. I am in front of a building that is classified as religious, perhaps because of its name priory, but on closer inspection it is a building that is more reminiscent of a manor. So I can confirm that this place is more than interesting for its past
Construction began in the Renaissance when the Hacquenouville family built a main residence, and an illustrious member, Roger d'Hacquenouville, was chamberlain to the King of France Charles VI at the beginning of the 15th century. A religious community settled there in 1692, and immediately afterwards the priory passed into the hands of the Jesuits who remained there until 1762. During the French Revolution the priory was sold as national property. The story does not end there, in the 19th century the grandfather of the composer Claude Delvincourt bought the property. The illustrious musician remained there until 1954, when he died. In 1980, the priory will house the town hall
After this historical interlude, I return to my wandering around this magnificent building, modified over time by its successive hosts. I note that the various restorations have preserved its massive silhouette, its marquetry of flint and sandstone, characteristic of the rural heritage of the Dieppe region. Stepping back a little, I discover the plan of the dwelling which is rectangular as was the fashion during the Renaissance. It is set on a vaulted cellar, whose entrance is to the right of the steps of the door in a semi-circular arch, with a decorated sandstone frieze. The architecture of this priory is definitely a pleasure for the eyes. Looking up, I also admire the mullioned windows and the oculi harmoniously pierced on the facade, but also the Anglo-Norman style dormer windows. My curiosity pushes me to go and see what is hidden at the back of the building and there I discover a square tower which reminds me of the typical campaniles of Italy. Still to the north-west, a large octagonal tower was added in 2001 and serves as a reception area for the Town Hall. I note that even on this recent part, all the walls repeat the same sandstone/flint patterns of the dwelling, thus creating a beautiful homogeneity of the built complex. Finally, just next to the access to the town hall, are the old stables. My visit is coming to an end. Let's go, I allow myself a little more time in the park with its elegant trees and head for the exit, leaving behind me a splendid rural heritage, steeped in history and music.