Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The château de la Grifferie, located in Luché-Pringé in the department of Sarthe, was built from the seventeenth century on the right bank of the Loir. Its construction was made possible thanks to the local tuft quarries, a material typical of the region. The castle, of classic style, consists of a central house framed by two pavilions, with a courtyard of honor lined with symmetrical outbuildings.

In the 18th century, the Marquis de la Galissonière redesigned the facades of the castle, bringing significant architectural changes. Later, in the 19th century, the Marquise de Foucault had the park developed in English landscape style, adding a romantic dimension to the estate. These transformations reflect the evolution of the tastes and uses of castles in France throughout the centuries.

The castle has been partially listed as a historical monument since 24 June 1976, especially for its facades, roofs, as well as for several interior rooms (large living room, small living room, dining room and library) and their decorations. Near the castle, remains of a Gallo-Roman villa were discovered at the beginning of the twentieth century by Adrien Percheron de Monchy, then owner of the estate, revealing an ancient occupation of the site.

Today, the château de la Grifferie is a private property. Its history and architecture illustrate the aristocratic heritage of the Sarthe, while at the same time testifying to successive stylistic influences, from 17th century classicism to 19th century landscape developments.

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