Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Saint-Blancard, located in the Gers in Occitanie, finds its origins in an ancient and medieval occupation confirmed by excavations in 1889. A first castle was mentioned in the 13th century, with an agreement in 1303 between the inhabitants and Pierre d'Orbessan for its reconstruction. The 14th century masonries, widely preserved, form the structure of the monument, supplemented by 16th century pierces.

In the 16th century, the castle was associated with the family of Gontaut Biron, whose Maréchal de Biron, born in 1562 in his walls, was executed for treason to Henry IV. A fire in 1888 partially ravaged the building, resulting in a reconstruction by Henri de Gontaut. This phase adds a western dungeon, neo-Gothic decorations, and the slaughter of the south and west walls to clear the view of the Pyrenees. The commons and a greenhouse are also built at that time.

The 20th century marks a turning point for the castle: during the Second World War, it houses works from the Louvre, saved thanks to Jacques Jaujard and Christiane Desroches Noblecourt. Sold in 1959, the property became a hospital before being acquired in 1990 by Andrew Harding, a British. Since the 2000s, the castle, partially classified as a historical monument in 2005, has been abandoned despite the efforts of a local association to preserve it.

Protected elements include facades, roofs, a feudal motte, and decorated interiors such as Marguerite de Navarre's room. Urban architect Vitry and Leopold Gentil contributed to its transformation in the 19th century. Today, the castle remains a private property, witness to the architectural and historical developments of the region.

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