Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Rouville is a French building built in 1492 by Hector de Boissy, Grand panetier of King Charles VIII, on the ruins of a 9th century fortress. Located in Malesherbes in the Loiret, it embodies the defensive architecture of the late Middle Ages, before being profoundly transformed in the following centuries. The site, strategically located near the Essonne and the departmental road 132, also demonstrates the importance of medieval and modern communication routes.

About 1580, acquired by the Italian family of Fera-Rouville, the castle changed hands in 1846 when the family of Aboville became its owner. This year marks the beginning of a first restoration campaign led by architects Châtelain and Lavenant, who add neogothic elements like a polygonal tower. These works reflect the romantic taste of the 19th century for the reinterpreted medieval styles, while modernizing the interiors.

From 1863, Ernest and Alphonse-Gabriel of Aboville launched a second restoration, entrusted to the architect Magne, which imposed a neo-Renaissance style on the castle. Woodworks of Chemault Castles (demoli in 1850) and Rumont Castles are integrated, illustrating the common practice of reusing decorative elements among the aristocracy. The private chapel, the former parish church of Rouville bought in 1816, is also restored with a porch, stained glass windows and a master altar.

The estate extends over a landscaped park created after 1850, retaining existing and descending species towards the Essonne. An 18th-century orangery, commons and a dovecote complete the whole, typical of the large rural properties of the period. Since 2001, the castle, its outbuildings and its park have been listed as historical monuments, thus protecting a heritage combining medieval heritage and 19th century transformations.

External links