Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The château de Chambray, located in the commune of Chambray in Normandy, is a building built mainly in the 2nd quarter of the 18th century, although its origins date from the 17th century. The house, originally built by the Count of Louviers, underwent major transformations, notably in the 19th century, then a restoration and expansion at the beginning of the 20th century by architect Lisch. The dominant materials are brick and coated bellows, with slate or flat tile roofs. The estate includes commons organized around a courtyard, stables, a chapel, and a concierge pavilion, possibly used as an orangery.

The outbuildings, including the large stables (1736) and the chapel rebuilt in 1771, illustrate the architectural evolution of the site. The park, created in the 18th century, mixes wooded parkland, parter, groves and roundabouts, although its regular original layout has been modified to adopt an irregular style. Among the outstanding features are a brick and stone bridge in the park, as well as a wrought iron gate opening onto the courtyard of the communes. The castle welcomed personalities such as poet Mme Deshoullières (1637–194) in the 17th century.

The monument has changed hands several times, passing between the families of Grimouville, Hanivel, Clermont-Tonnerre, or the Marquise de Tourzel, governess of the children of Louis XVI. The Marquise of Kerkoent, the Duchess of Lorges and the family of Croï are also part of its historical owners. Partially classified as historical monuments in 1973 (façades, roofs of communes and chapel), the castle bears witness to both aristocratic residential architecture and landscape transformations over centuries.

External links