Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Château d'Orcher was born in the 11th century, when Rollon, in 912, granted a vast estate to Gonfreville in Auricher, giving it the title of hereditary marshal of Normandy. The latter erected a castle with a chapel dedicated to Sainte-Honorine. The dungeon, partially destroyed in 1360 by the Harfleur troops, was rebuilt before being taken by the English in 1415. Henry V of England then dispossessed the Crespin family for the benefit of John Fastolf, then the estate changed hands several times, passing to the families of Brézé, d的O, and Novion.

In the 17th century, the Potier family became its owner until 1719, when financier John Law acquired it. The castle was then transformed in the 18th century by Thomas de Planterose, who removed the large dungeon and the north towers, modernizing the building with the help of architects François de la Motte and Jacques Lesueur. The woodwork, carried out by the carpenter Le Roux, bears witness to this period of renovation. The estate remained in the offspring of Planterose until its marriage to the family of Harcourt in the 19th century.

In the 19th century, the Rochechouart family began a major restoration in 1857, led by architect Pierre Philippon. The castle, partially classified as historical monuments in 1976, preserves medieval elements such as the vaulted cellar and the dovecote, while integrating 18th and 19th century decorations. Today, it still belongs to the Harcourt family, perpetuating an architectural and historical heritage of more than a thousand years.

Situated on a cliff overlooking the estuary of the Seine, the castle of Orcher illustrates the architectural and political evolutions of Normandy, from medieval origins to the transformations of the Enlightenment. Its history reflects Franco-English conflicts, family alliances and successive adaptations throughout the centuries, making it a privileged witness to Norman heritage.

The protections for historical monuments include the large ground floor living room, facades, roofs, as well as several interior rooms and their decor. These elements highlight the artistic and historical importance of the castle, which combines medieval remains and modern arrangements.

External links