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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Château de la Motte-Sonzay is located south of the village of Sonzay, in Indre-et-Loire, on the banks of the Fare, which feeds its moats. This monument, classified as historical monuments since April 25, 1959, is an example of defensive architecture transformed over the centuries. Originally, it was mounted on a quadrangular plane, reinforced by four corner towers, with secure access by a poterne and a drawbridge.

Built on the site of a feudal building of the 12th and 15th centuries, the present castle was erected in the 16th century by Antoine de Loubes, the king's panetier. It belonged to the powerful family of Bueil, whose construction of a chastel began in 1380. In the 19th century, major changes were made: the wings connecting the chapel tower were demolished, and the courtyard was transformed into a terrace. A polygonal tower, with a staircase and a Gothic door decorated with pinnacles, was added or remodelled at that time.

The castle once covered the castles of Tours and La Vallière. In the 19th century, it became the property of the Bonnin de la Bonninière de Beaumont family. Today, it belongs to a private company and visits partially in summer, from 15 July to 31 August, or by appointment the rest of the year. Its architecture combines medieval elements, such as moat and Gothic gate, with Renaissance facades and 19th-century amenities.

The protected elements include the entire castle, as defined by the cadastre (section E, parcel 36). The site preserves traces of its feudal past, while illustrating architectural evolutions related to changes in owners and uses over the centuries. The presence of the Fare, which always feeds its moat, adds to its original defensive character.

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