Franche Comte Half-Timbered Houses

Franche Comte traditional house types and the materials used can be categorized in the German «pan de bois» (timber frame) architectural family. Many local symbols and decorations are adorn this type of property. Symbols appear on porches, doors and on the pieces of wood used to make the half-timbered walls.

These houses are sometimes referred to as farmhouses, describing them according to their function rather than their appearance.

The popularity of half-timbering in the France Comte can be explained by the fact that wood is abundant in the area. Roof tiles are generally brown or red, and flat. The symbols used on these half-timbered properties refer to religious beliefs, popular wisdom or ancient legends that were popular in Franche Comte.

Typically walls are filled using cob, only then the floor and the roof structure are constructed. The wooden framework is naturally strong and rigid once erected and the strength of the structure can easily be reinforced using wood plugs.

Like in other regions of France, traditional rural houses in Franche Comte were often originally farm dwellings. Once the house was built, the new owner typically organised a meal as thanks to the worker involved and the family would go to the nearest temple or church to get it blessed by a priest.