Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Aulnois, located in Aulnois-sur-Seille in the Great East, is a monument dating back to the 4th quarter of the 14th century. Originally, it was a medieval stronghold dependent on the bishopric of Metz. The remains of this period, including the 14th and 15th century towers, are still visible at the back of the current building. These defensive elements demonstrate its strategic role in the region, probably linked to the control of the Seille Valley, an area of passage and trade between Lorraine and neighbouring territories.

In the 18th century, the castle was completely rebuilt in a classical style by architect Germain Boffrand, the first architect of the Duke of Lorraine. The latter used the natural terrace overlooking the Seille to erect an elegant facade, designed in 1726. This transformation coincides with the annoyance of the then owner, the Count of the Armoises, created "Marquis d'Aunoy" by Duke Léopold I of Lorraine. The castle then becomes an aristocratic residence, reflecting the prestige of its occupants and the architectural influences of the Lorrain court.

The monument changed hands in 1772, when Michel-Joseph de Coeurderoy, the first president of Nancy's parliament, acquired it. He remained in his progeny until the beginning of the 20th century, marking a period of stability for the estate. However, the two world wars inflicted significant damage on the castle: occupied by Hitlerian youths during the Second World War and damaged during the liberation struggles, it required important restorations. After 1945, partial works were carried out, but the castle was finally abandoned between 1979 and the 1990s.

The rehabilitation of the castle began in 1993, when SIVOM between Seille and Nied (intermunicipal union) became the owner, with the financial support of Europe, the State and the Moselle General Council. The works, costing 2.686 million euros, bring the monument back to life. Since 1999, the castle has been home to a public primary school (the school of the Armoises, with more than 150 pupils) as well as a cultural and sports association (Foyer Rural des Armoises). This project illustrates the successful conversion of historical heritage into living space, serving the local community.

On the architectural level, the estate consists of an 18th-century castle, medieval round towers (XIVth–XVIth centuries), and a park lined with walls and square towers. Among the remarkable elements are an 18th-century wrought iron grid, terraces with perrons, and a basin below. The castle has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1963 (for its oldest parts) and registered in 2013 for the entire estate, highlighting its exceptional heritage value.

Future

It now houses a public primary school, called the Armoises School, with more than 150 students and an association (Rural Home of the Armoises).

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