Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Jonchet Castle, located in Cloyes-les-Trois-Rivières (formerly Romilly-sur-Aigre) in Eure-et-Loir, is an emblematic Renaissance monument built in the 16th century. Sponsored by Pierre Sublet de Romilly, local lord, he embodies the noble architecture of this period, with a massive central structure and low wings. The site, surrounded by moats, retains defensive elements typical of the seigneurial residences of the time, while integrating later modifications.

In the 18th century, the architect Gabriel de Lestrade partially transformed the castle, notably by adding an honour staircase for Louis-Hilaire du Bouchet, Count of Sourches. This period marks an evolution towards a more classic style, visible in the south facade with curvilinear windows and the chapel with a bell tower. The castle, classified as a historical monument in 1984, reflects centuries of architectural and social history.

The 20th century saw the castle pass through the hands of prominent personalities: restored by the architect Fernand Pouillon in the 1950s, it was then acquired by the designer Hubert de Givenchy (1970–2018), who made it an emblematic residence. Previously, he belonged to Count Armand de Tarragon, then Roger Bellon, local mayor and founder of the eponymous pharmaceutical laboratories. These successive owners contributed to its preservation and fame.

The Jonchet Castle is distinguished by its protected elements, including facades, roofs, moats, interior staircase and three historic chimneys. Its history, linked to the local aristocracy (teachers of Romilly, Counts of Sourches), illustrates the evolution of noble residences in the Centre-Val de Loire, between defensive, residential and symbolic functions. Today private property, there remains a major testimony of the regional architectural heritage.

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