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Origin and history

The castle of Pennesuyt, also called the castle of Loëze, finds its origins in the 14th century as a strong house in the heart of the seigneury of " Painessuyt". Located in Bourg-en-Bresse in Ain, it was first mentioned in 1378 as property of Jean de Sancia, whose descendants kept it until 1448. On that date, Jeanne de Sancia brought in dowry to Jean de Lyobard, marking the beginning of a series of transmissions between local noble families.

In the 16th century, the seigneury passed into the hands of Claude de Lyobard, who paid tribute to King Francis I in 1536. Then sold to Étienne de Rives, then to Pierre d'Escodeca, Baron of Pardaillan and Governor of Bourg, the estate was completely rebuilt around 1611. He gave it to Guillaume Fouquet, Marquis de Varenne, who sold it to Pierre Granet, president of the presidial of Bourg. The seigneury remained in the Granet family until 1657, when it was acquired by historian Samuel Guichenon.

The castle changed hands again in 1679, when Antoinette Guichenon, Samuel's daughter, brought him in marriage to Jean-Joseph de Jacob, squire. Jacob's family remained the owner until the middle of the 18th century. In 1789, the estate belonged to Joseph-Ignace-Favier de Loëze, knight. Representing 17th century manorial architecture in the Ain, the castle was partially listed as a historical monument in 1987 for its facades, roofs, and entrance hall with staircase.

Architecturally, Pennesuyt Castle is distinguished by its classic style, closer to the rural mansion than the fortified castle. It is a rare testimony of the seigneurial residences of this period in the department, reflecting the social and architectural transformations between the Middle Ages and modern times. Its history highlights matrimonial alliances and land transactions that have shaped local heritage.

The location of the castle, in the district of Loëze in Bourg-en-Bresse, as well as its partial inscription as historical monuments, underline its heritage importance. The protected elements, such as the vestibule and its staircase, illustrate the care taken to preserve this unique specimen in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

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