Saint-Lubin Street

Welcome to Rue Saint-Lubin, a true gem of Blois’ historic center and a genuine journey back to the 15th and 16th centuries! The street owes its name to Saint Lubin, Bishop of Chartres in the 6th century, preserving the memory of the former Church of Saint-Lubin, once the main place of worship in Blois until it was destroyed by fire in 1114. Look up and take in these magnificent timber-framed houses—one of the finest collections of medieval civil architecture in the Loire Valley! Built during the time when Blois was a royal residence under Louis XII, they reflect the city’s prosperity. Notice the diamond patterns carved into the wood—like lace in architecture, extremely costly back then, allowing wealthy townsfolk to flaunt their success while echoing the decorative style of the nearby royal château. At number 36, don’t miss the façade listed as a Historic Monument, with its large Saint Andrew’s crosses and windows framed by sculpted columns. These buildings showcase the ingenuity of Blésois carpenters: their façades stand perfectly upright, held by a clever system of anchoring stones, all assembled from local oak using traditional techniques of extraordinary precision. On the ground floor once stood the *ouvroirs*, workshop-boutiques where goldsmiths and artisans worked, while families lived upstairs in a street alive with activity. When the royal court moved to Blois, these elegant homes were built to house courtiers and servants. Today, the street forms part of the “Quartier des Arts,” where the artisan spirit still thrives, offering an exceptional glimpse into Renaissance life. Walking here means stepping through five centuries of history, surrounded by an architectural setting that has been beautifully preserved.