Portiers

Portier is an occupational title for a doorman or gatekeeper, typically employed at hotels, theatres, mansions, apartment buildings, or government premises. The plural form portiers refers to multiple individuals in this role. Portiers perform duties such as greeting guests, directing them to appropriate locations, assisting with luggage, managing access control, and providing information about local services. In some contexts, they also oversee security, monitor entrances, and coordinate with other staff. The role has historical roots in European hospitality and service traditions, especially in French-speaking regions, where the term originates.

In modern usage, the position is less common in many countries, having been largely supplanted by front desk staff, concierges, or security personnel, but it still appears in traditional or luxury hotels, old mansions, or formal buildings. The term is sometimes used in literature or historical descriptions to evoke a bygone service culture. The French origin remains evident in some hospitality or architectural contexts, and comparable roles exist under various titles such as doorman, porter, or concierge in different languages.

Note: The word portier is distinct from portière (plural portières), which refers to a door curtain or doorway drapery, and in some contexts to a car door in French. These terms share related roots tied to doors but denote different objects.