Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Lacour, located in Lacour-d'Arcenay en Côte-d'Or (Burgogne-Franche-Comté), finds its origins in the 14th century. Built around 1373 by Abbé Espiard, it was then a strong house. In 1599, the building, belonging to the family of La Baume, was ruined by the Leagues during the Wars of Religion. The vestiges of this medieval era partially remain in the present structure.

The present castle was rebuilt in the 17th century on the ruins of the medieval building, preserving some original elements such as moat still in water. Transmitted from generation to generation, it now belongs to Thy family. Its U-shaped plan, with a central body framed by two pavilions finished with round towers, reflects both functional and aesthetic architecture. The entrance is through an alley through the moat, leading to a luminous vestibule restored in the 19th century.

Inside, the vestibule crosses the building from east to west and is decorated with mouldings representing four allegories (hunting, war, music, fieldwork). It gives access, on one side, to the large living room, and on the other, to a stone staircase of honor. The estate also includes a dovecote, outbuildings, and a horse iron garden. The whole, including the ditches, has been listed as historical monuments since 29 June 1993.

The architect Jean-Baptiste Caristie is associated with the design or transformation of the castle, although its exact role is not detailed in the sources. The site, located close to the centre of the village (4 Place de la Mairie), remains a major architectural and historical testimony of the region, mixing medieval heritage and 17th century classicism.

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