Corps de logis

In architecture, a corps de logis (French pronunciation: [kɔʁ də lɔʒi]) is the principal or main block, or central building of a mansion, country or manor house, castle, or palace.

It contains the rooms of principal business, the state apartments and the ceremonial or formal entry.

[1] The grandest and finest rooms within the corps de logis are often found not at grade level, but on the first or even the second floor above.

This floor is often referred to as the Italian piano nobile, the French bel étage, or the German beletage.

The corps de logis is usually flanked by lower, secondary wings, such as the barchesse of Venetian villas.