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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Château de Couterne, also known as Château du Fai, is a 16th and 17th century residence in the commune of Couterne, in the department of Orne, Normandy. Originally built in the 15th century, it was acquired in 1542 by Jehan de Froutté, secretary and chief financial officer of Marguerite de Valois-Angoulême, queen of Navarre. This character, also poet at the court of Marguerite de Navarre, marked the history of the castle by its acquisition and its role in its architectural development.

In the 18th century, a Marquis de Froutté undertook major expansion work: he raised the manor on one floor, created two brick pavilions, and reduced the number of round towers from six to two. These changes were accompanied by the addition of fireplaces, Louis XV-Louis XVI transition-style mists, and woodwork in the dining room. The terraced gardens, surrounded by moat, and the front façade overlooking a court of honour also date from this period.

The Château de Couterne played a notable role during the French Revolution as a high place of caulianry in the Orne, under the impulse of Louis de Froutté. At that time, Charles-Gabriel Daniel de Froutté (1732–91) was his lord and patron. The monument was listed as historic monuments by decree of 17 April 1931, recognizing its heritage value.

Architecturally, the castle is distinguished by its French style, combining granite and pink bricks, and its aquatic environment. The 18th century transformations, although reducing the number of towers, gave him a characteristic elegance, while integrating interior decorative elements reflecting the stylistic transitions of the era. Today, there remains a significant testimony of Norman history and the influence of local noble families.

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