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Origin and history

The Castle of Ricey-Bas is a building located in the town of Riceys, in the department of Aube, in the Grand Est region. It is adjacent to a park and crossed by the Laignes River. This castle, whose origins date back to the Middle Ages, has undergone several major transformations over the centuries, reflecting the architectural and political evolutions of its time.

The first mention of a building on this site dates from 1086 when Robert de Ricey built a strong house, destroyed by the king. In 1424 Nicolas Rolin, chancellor of the Duke of Burgundy, had a castle rebuilt on this land granted to him. This new building became a residence of the bishops of Chalon-sur-Saône, marking its religious and political importance.

In the 15th century, Mary d'Amboise, then a fief holder, modified the castle, notably by transforming the two existing towers. In 1506 Anne de Laval added a tower of twelve meters in diameter and a gallery, enriching the architecture of the place. The seigneury was elevated to the rank of marquisat in 1659 under Louis Vignier, consolidating his prestige.

The castle and its park were the subject of several protections for historical monuments: the facades, roofs, and the French garden were registered in 1967, followed by the pigeon-house and stables in 1979. The Northwest Wing, dating from the 16th century, was classified in 1985, and the entire park, including its canals, was listed in 2025, highlighting the heritage value of the site.

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