The Malouinières are now only 112 listed in the Inventory, out of the 200 that once existed, built within a radius of 12 to 15km around Saint-Malo and along the Rance by wealthy merchants, captains, and shipowners. During the 17th and 18th centuries, these owners would retreat to the countryside in a pleasure residence, less than two hours by horse from the privateer city, where they conducted their business. These manors and their outbuildings allowed them to enjoy the space and fresh air of the countryside, not far from the walled city, as a defense against potential English attacks. It was also a way to display their social ascent by building lovely homes for entertaining. The architecture of the Malouinières in the 18th century is simple and regular, inspired by military buildings, with symmetrical and limited decoration. The country houses are hidden from view behind high enclosing walls, with the main building extending into outbuildings for services. All Malouinières feature a dovecote - for communication with all ports of France by sending messages - and sometimes a chapel. The environment is designed for pleasure with French gardens, greenery, and a body of water, offering a beautiful perspective. The layout also focuses on the land's produce, as orchards, vegetable gardens, stables, and poultry yards allowed for both ornamental and subsistence farming, which families could bring back to Saint-Malo. Cabinet de Charry Bretagne Paris is pleased to offer for sale exclusively a lovely Malouinière in Minihic-sur-Rance.
