18th Century Brick and Stone Mansion for Sale in France

Description

An architectural jewel in the heart of Avesnois

This extraordinary historic mansion stands in a privileged location within the Avesnois regional natural park, in the Hauts-de-France region, just 8 kilometres from the Belgian border. The property, known as Les Carmes, takes its name from an ancient mendicant order from Syria and was initially built as a convent between 1724 and 1729, financed by the nuns thanks to the generosity of Duchess Marie-Célestine de Holstein-Rethwisch.

This mansion for sale in France represents a living testimony to 18th-century religious architecture, where each architectural element tells a story of faith, art and tradition. The surrounding gardens, with their centenary trees and historic decorative elements, create an atmosphere of unique serenity and majesty.

An architectural heritage of exceptional value

Historic spaces that captivate the senses

The main mansion is a rectangular two-level building crowned by an attic, built in brick masonry with elegant details in limestone plinth, bands and corners. The western facade features unique elements such as a coat of arms carved in stone and a large sculpted helm housed in an arched alcove that crowns the ensemble.

The wrought iron balconies are supported by three magnificent caryatids representing hooded men, creating a sculptural element of extraordinary beauty that turns every exterior view into a work of art.

On the ground floor, an imposing hall welcomes visitors with its main wooden baluster staircase, while a large vaulted corridor unfolds illuminated by six historic stained glass windows depicting coats of arms. At the end of this majestic corridor stands the old chapel with vaulted ceiling, preserving its original sacred character intact.

The three large halls with semicircular arches house architectural treasures such as two historic fireplaces: a Louis XV fireplace in brown marble and another in sculpted marble, both silent witnesses to centuries of history. A spiral staircase elegantly leads to a mezzanine, adding verticality and dynamism to the ensemble.

A modern space that complements history

The first floor houses eight bedrooms, each equipped with a washbasin and small-paned windows characteristic of the period. The bare wooden floors retain their original charm, while an old kitchen and three toilets complete the historic layout. Access is provided by both elevator and a second wooden staircase.

The second floor surprises with a vast brick-paved attic that maintains the exposed roof structure in good condition, offering exceptional potential for conversion into additional living space.

A contemporary extension that multiplies possibilities

The extension built in the 1980s provides approximately 1,000 m² distributed over three levels plus basements, creating a total of more than 35 bedrooms. This modern section includes multiple bedrooms, dining rooms, kitchens, offices, living rooms, toilets and bathrooms, all equipped with modern heating and sanitation systems.

The spacious corridors with large windows flood these contemporary spaces with natural light, while the multiple staircases facilitate circulation between floors. Modern functionality integrates harmoniously with the historic character of the ensemble.

Historic gardens that inspire

The grounds of approximately 7,000 m² are divided into two parts on either side of the mansion, creating different landscape environments. Among its treasures is an ancient fountain adorned with four sculpted lion heads, a decorative element that adds majesty to the gardens.

The central lawn planted with Caucasian laurel trees creates a Mediterranean atmosphere, while the lawn areas with topiary-pruned yews demonstrate the French gardening tradition. The old brick balustrade covered with ivy adds a romantic touch to the ensemble.

With approximately 1,000 m² of additional buildable area, the property offers expansion possibilities for future projects.

An investment in the heart of Europe

The Hauts-de-France region represents one of the most dynamic areas in northern Europe, with excellent international connections. The proximity to the Belgian border (8 km) facilitates access to Brussels and the rest of Europe, while connections to Paris and London offer privileged access to major European capitals.

The Avesnois regional natural park provides an exceptional natural environment, ideal for developing sustainable tourism activities, while the region's heritage wealth attracts visitors interested in history, art and culture.

This historic mansion for sale represents a unique opportunity to develop high-level hotel, cultural or residential projects, taking advantage of both its heritage value and its strategic location in the heart of Europe.

* Publication for information purposes only, not binding or contractual. May contain errors or be subject to change.