Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Houville-la-Branche, classified as a Historical Monument, consists of a central body framed with two wings, preceded by a forebody surmounted by a curvilinear pediment. Its architecture reflects the styles of the 17th and 18th centuries, with decorative elements such as a wrought iron porch and a courtyard fence decorated with fire pots. Inside, 18th-century panelling, wrought iron stairs, and a white marble fountain (from the castle of Anatole France in Capian) bear witness to its rich heritage.

The dining room houses a white marble fountain transferred from the castle of Anatole France to Capian. On the first floor, a reconstitution of the room of the writer Anatole France is arranged with furniture from the same castle. These elements highlight the historical links between the two properties, although Houville-la-Branche Castle remains a private residence, not open to the public.

The monument has been protected since 1960, with an inscription covering facades, roofs, and the courtyard of honour. Its location in Eure-et-Loir (28), near Chartres, is specified with an approximate address at 10 Grande Rue. Ancient photographs, such as Gustave William Lemaire (1848–1928), document his appearance before contemporary changes.

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