Initial construction 1727 (≈ 1727)
Castle built by Jean Drapeau.
1729-1754
Reconstruction by Jean Drapeau
Reconstruction by Jean Drapeau 1729-1754 (≈ 1742)
Work for personal use.
4e quart du XIXe siècle
Addition of the Western Pavilion
Addition of the Western Pavilion 4e quart du XIXe siècle (≈ 1987)
Late architectural changes.
10 février 1987
Registration for Historic Monuments
Registration for Historic Monuments 10 février 1987 (≈ 1987)
Protection of facades and roofs.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Facades and roofs (Case AZ 179): inscription by order of 10 February 1987
Key figures
Jean Drapeau - Owner and reconstructor
Built and remodeled the castle.
Origin and history
The Château de Beaulieu is an emblematic building of Saumur, built in the early eighteenth century. It was erected in 1727 by Jean Drapeau, who rebuilt it for his personal use between 1729 and 1754. The castle is distinguished by its privileged location, on the edge of the Loire, about 200 meters from the river, and its park with trees housing a giant sequoia classified as a protected element. This monument illustrates the aristocratic residential architecture of the time, combining elegance and landscape integration.
The castle is partially rebuilt or modified during the 4th quarter of the 19th century, notably with the addition of a west pavilion and outbuildings. These transformations reflect changes in architectural needs and tastes over the centuries. In 1987, the facades and roofs of the castle were included in the inventory of historic monuments, thus recognizing their heritage value. This protection applies specifically to architectural elements identified under the cadastral reference AZ 179.
Located in the department of Maine-et-Loire, in Pays de la Loire, the Château de Beaulieu is located in a territory marked by a rich history linked to the Loire and Anjou. Its park and its proximity to the river make it an emblematic place of local heritage, mixing history, nature and architecture. Available sources, such as the Merimée and Monumentum base, confirm its importance in the cultural landscape of Saumur and its region.
