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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

Flée Castle, located in Val-Larrey in Côte-d'Or (Burgundy-Franche-Comté), is an 18th-century building built on the site of an old strong house attested from 1252. This H-shaped building, typical of classical architecture, rises on a terrace lined with composite walls and remains of ditches. A lower court, accessible by an imitation of a drawbridge, precedes the entrance, while a round tower and an octagonal curate recall its medieval origin.

The history of the estate dates back to the Middle Ages: Jacques de la Bussière was lord of the estate in 1364, before the site passed into the hands of Girard Forcault in 1417 and M. de Thalemer in 1461. In the 18th century, Claude Court sabre signaled his reconstruction by Louis Dupille de Saint-Séverin. Damaged during the Second World War, the castle was saved in 1980 by Mr. and Mrs. Bach, who undertook a restoration respectful of his original art. Several elements, including facades, roofs, interior staircase and central living room, have been protected since 1983.

The castle combines ancient remains, such as the round tower overlooking the lower courtyard, with 18th-century amenities such as the entrance pavilions and the dovecote. Its interior staircase, cage, central living room décor and kitchen fireplace are among the outstanding elements. Although partially destroyed, the site illustrates the architectural evolution of a seigneurial estate, from the Middle Ages to the modern era.

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