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Maison Celieres
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palace
Maison Célières is one of the finest surviving examples of colonial architecture in Nouméa, located in the historic Faubourg Blanchot district. Built in 1898, the house embodies the tropical residential style of the era, featuring extensive wrap-around verandas, intricate fretwork, and high ceilings designed to facilitate natural cooling. After serving as the home of the Célières family for generations, the structure underwent a significant restoration between 2006 and 2009, which saved it from dereliction and restored its original elegance. It now serves as the Maison du Livre (House of the Book), a cultural hub that promotes local literature and provides a library for the community. The property includes a beautifully maintained traditional garden, which complements the colonial aesthetic of the building and features a serene escape within the city.
- Location: New Caledonia
- Top sights: Maison Célières · Maison du Livre de Nouvelle-Calédonie · Centre d'Art
- Nearby: Rivière-Salée (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 109 | 99 | 161 | 104 | 94 | 80 | 68 | 58 | 42 | 41 | 65 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Maison Célières is an excellently preserved colonial building from 1898, now serving as a literature house. It can be visited during the opening hours of the cultural institution.
Typical hours
The literature house's opening hours vary; it is typically open on weekday afternoons. It's best to check online or by phone in advance.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed, but without flash to protect the exhibits. The ornate wooden veranda and decorations are good subjects.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for a walk through the rooms and garden. The exhibitions about book culture invite you to linger.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby bandstand on Place des Cocotiers. The Museum of New Caledonia is also within walking distance.
Getting there
The house is on Rue Jean Jaurès in central Nouméa. It is easily reachable on foot or by bus; parking is available on surrounding streets.
Insider tip
Ask about a guided tour to learn more about the preserved original interior. The small bookshop in the house provides regional literature.
Geography
Facts
- Built in 1898 for the Célières family
- Underwent extensive restoration between 2006 and 2009
- Located in the historic Faubourg Blanchot district
- Architectural style follows the 'Maison de Colon'
- Classified as a historic monument in 1989
- Houses a specialized library for heritage preservation
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Maison Celieres (9)
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Church in Nouméa, New Caledonia, France.
Église Evangélique de Pentecôte
Evangelical Pentecostal church in Nouméa.
Monument aux Morts 14-18 de la Place Bir Hakeim
World War I memorial on Place Bir Hakeim square.
Mémoire des Gendarmes et Militaires
Monument commemorating fallen gendarmes and soldiers.
Centre Islamique de Nouméa
Islamic center in Nouméa serving the Muslim community.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Maison Célières?
A historic house that is an example of colonial architecture.
Can it be visited inside?
Yes, it often serves as an exhibition space or cultural center.
Where is the house located?
It is located in Nouméa, easily accessible in a residential area.
How much time should I plan?
Allow about an hour for the visit.
Are there events there?
Small cultural events or readings often take place.
Maison Celieres: where is it located?
Maison Celieres is located in New Caledonia.
Maison Celieres: what is there to see?
Highlights include Maison Célières, Maison du Livre de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Centre d'Art.
Maison Celieres: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Maison Celieres: why is it worth visiting?
Maison Célières is one of the finest surviving examples of colonial architecture in Nouméa, located in the historic Faubourg Blanchot district.
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