Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Chaumont Castle, located in Oyé en Saône-et-Loire, is a historic monument listed in the Supplementary Inventory. Built mainly in the eighteenth century on medieval bases, it is distinguished by its U-shaped plan, its central body flanked by towers and pavilions, and its wings framed by a courtyard. The 7-hectare landscape park, adorned with statues, carved shrubs and a 350-metre quail, completes the whole. Inside, a vaulted chapel and a large room decorated with panelling and frescoes testify to its prestige.

The history of the castle dates back to the 15th century, with medieval vestiges such as vaults on a cross-wall and a braided windows. In the 17th century, the estate belonged to Cluny Abbey before being sold in 1638 to Hector Andrault de Langeron, Marquis de Maulévrier. In the 18th century, Jean Circaud, king's secretary and promoter of the Charolais race, had the present house rebuilt, completed in 1777. The Circaud family, associated with Mathieus, is developing a beef business that contributes to their social ascent.

In the 19th century, the castle passed to the Marais family by the marriage of Jules du Marais with Elisa Circaud in 1818. Albert du Marais, in the 20th century, radically transformed the building by incorporating neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance elements, such as skylights, a stair tower and a scauguette from the Moulin-l'Arconce castle. A fresco depicting Saint Louis, painted by Léon Raffin in 1956-1957, adorns the grand hall. The park and parts of the castle are open to the public in August.

The castle illustrates the architectural and social evolution of Burgundy, mixing medieval heritage, classic 18th century transformations and romantic restorations of the 20th century. Its park, carved decorations and frescoes make it a major heritage site of Brionnais, while its history reflects local economic dynamics, including Charoese breeding.

Ranked a Historic Monument in 1990 for its facades, commons and dovecote, the Château de Chaumont remains a private property. Its summer opening and the rental of its rooms make it a living place, anchored in the cultural landscape of Saône-et-Loire.

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