Timeline

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Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Moulinvieux, located in Asnières-sur-Vègre in the department of Sarthe, finds its origins in the seventeenth century with the construction of the central part of the house. This first building, of classical style, marks the starting point of an architectural ensemble that will evolve significantly in the next century. The sources mention a partial inscription to the historical monuments since 1989, covering the castle, its communes, an old escape and its park.

In the 18th century, especially after 1761, the castle underwent major changes: the lateral wings were added, the interior was embellished (menusies, paintings, sculptures), and a chapel Notre Dame was erected. A landscaped garden, typical of the time, is set up, while a body in return is attached at the end of the century. These transformations reflect the influence of architectural and decorative trends of the Enlightenment century, mixing functionality and aesthetics.

The commons, including stables, orangery and a iron gate, also date back to the 18th century, just like the regular garden, partially located on the site of an old destroyed manor house (the Onglée Renaut). In the 19th century, additional modifications were made by the architect Lachese around 1840: enhancement of the anterior façade, redevelopment of interiors (saper, kitchen), and addition of a monogram. The coat of arms, carved by Cottereau around 1901, bear witness to a final beautification phase.

The site also retains utility features such as a pool on the Vègre River and a 19th-century cooler. The original dovecote (17th century), however, disappeared in the 18th century. The ensemble, representative of the evolution of seigneurial residences in Anjou-Maine, illustrates the successive adaptations to lifestyles and artistic tastes, over nearly three centuries.

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