Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Dracy-lès-Couches came into being in 1298 with the construction of a medieval fortress, followed by the erection of a seigneury in 1368. Over the centuries, the estate changed hands frequently: the lords of Lugny in 1424, those of Monjeu in 1462 and Morin de Cromey who rebuilt the castle in 1547. In 1593, the square was besieged and taken by the lord of Marnay, marking a notable military episode. In the 18th century, the property passed into the hands of aristocratic brands like Berbis and Grammont, with major developments such as the cellar built in 1728 by Chaplain Jacques Bouchet.

In the 19th century, the castle underwent radical transformations under the influence of the Counts of Villers La Faye and the Marquis of Laubespin. In 1860, the Bühler brothers, landscape architects, redesigned the park and facades in an eclectic neo-Gothic style, while agricultural buildings were destroyed to open the courtyard of honour on the gardens. The medieval dungeon and a round 15th century tower, the oldest elements, were preserved despite these changes. The estate became a private property, with a cellar accessible to visitors.

Ranked a historic monument in 2016, the castle today illustrates almost seven centuries of architectural history, mixing medieval defensive remains and romantic embellishments. Its castral ensemble, including common, dovecote and park, bears witness to the social and aesthetic evolution of the Burgundy nobility, from feudal wars to industrial age. The archives also mention architects like Joseph-Antoine Froelicher, contributing to his transformation in the 19th century.

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