Acquisition by René d'Anjou 1444 (≈ 1444)
King René buys the mansion.
1446
Gift to Isabelle de Lorraine
Gift to Isabelle de Lorraine 1446 (≈ 1446)
Manor offered to his wife.
1447-1459
Reconstruction and enlargement
Reconstruction and enlargement 1447-1459 (≈ 1453)
Works ordered by René d'Anjou.
1963
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 1963 (≈ 1963)
Protection of facades and park.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Facades and roofs of buildings indicated in blue on the plan annexed to the Order; parts having retained their primitive decorations (red tint of the said buildings): classification by decree of 2 April 1963; Facades and roofs of all buildings (not included in the classification); part of the park surrounded by ditches (cad. A 707 to 709, 711, 713): entry by order of 8 April 1963
Key figures
René d'Anjou - King and patron
Owner, manor builder.
Isabelle de Lorraine - Wife of René d'Anjou
Recipient of the donation in 1446.
Jean Crist - Former owner
First mentioned owner.
Origin and history
Launay Castle is a 15th-century mansion located in Villebernier, Maine-et-Loire department. Built in the early 15th century, it is first owned by Jean Crist, then by Emery de Souvigné and Étienne Bernard. In 1444 King René d'Anjou acquired it and gave it two years later to his wife, Isabelle de Lorraine. The king stayed there several times, including a tournament in 1446.
Between 1447 and 1459, René d'Anjou rebuilt and enlarged the mansion. The north wing, dating from the 14th century, is enhanced by one floor, while new houses are built to the west and south, framing an open courtyard to the east. The southeast tower, housing a chapel, was completed before 1451. Around a forecourt, René raised servitudes, including an entrance chestnut and two corner towers, one of which was turned into a dovecote. The western and southern wings underwent major changes in the 19th century.
The castle was partially listed and classified as historical monuments in 1963. The facades, roofs, and some rooms that have preserved their primitive decoration are protected. The park surrounded by ditches is also included. Today, the castle remains an architectural testimony of the influence of King René in Anjou.
