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Origin and history

The castle of Benainvilliers, located in Morainvilliers in Île-de-France, is the oldest building of this type in the town, dating from the 17th century. His park, including a maze, is traditionally attributed to André Le Nôtre, famous gardener of Louis XIV. Originally designed as a hunting relay under the reign of the Sun King, it illustrates the classical architecture of the era, with a coated facade, regular spans and a slate-style roof.

The castle had several notable owners, including the Duke of Saint-Simon, who lived there and contributed to its prestige. In the 18th century, he passed into the hands of the Ridel de Plainesevette family, and in 1823 was transferred to the Robineau d'Ennemont family. After the fire that destroyed his roof, Mr. Bedel, owner from 1893, replaced it with a terrace, before Mr. Duval added a triangular pediment and an oculus during his reconstruction.

During the Second World War, the castle served as an auxiliary hospital for injured officers, thanks to the initiative of Mr. and Mrs. Bedel, active members of the Association des Dames Françaises. A statue of Joan d'Arc, offered by Colonel d'Ennemont, was installed there before being stolen in 1988. Today, the estate is recognized for its landscape and ecological quality, as well as for its preserved architecture, although it has undergone transformations over the centuries.

The castle is classified as a remarkable building, benefiting from measures to protect the architectural and landscape heritage. Its history reflects the social and cultural evolutions of the region, from its role as aristocratic residence to its involvement in modern conflicts. The successive modifications, such as the disappearance of the statue or the reconstructions, testify to its constant adaptation to the needs of its occupants and its times.

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