Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Saint-Denis, located in Sauveterre-Saint-Denis, is an 18th century monument, although its current reconstruction dates back to the 1840s. The primitive building, exposed to the floods of the Garonne River, was demolished around 1820. The new castle, designed by the Bordeaux architect Jean Burguet (1788-1848), with the possible collaboration of his nephew Charles Burguet (1821-1879), adopts a sober architecture: a central body with two levels framed by side pavilions. Its interior is distinguished by salons decorated with mouldings, a library, and two glass windows, one attributed to Jacques Gruber (1870-1936), master glassmaker of the École de Nancy.

The estate includes early nineteenth century outbuildings, a greenhouse, and a park. Owned by the Bastard family since the 17th century, the castle was classified as Historic Monument in 2021, protecting the entire castle, its outbuildings, its greenhouse, and its park spread over plots 247 to 250. The exterior architecture contrasts with the richness of interior decorations, reflecting the evolution of aristocratic tastes between classicism and Art Nouveau influences.

The initial location near the Garonne marked the history of the site, imposing its displacement to escape recurrent floods. The choice of Jean Burguet, renowned architect in Bordeaux, highlights the importance attached to this project, combining functionality and aesthetics. The glass roof of Jacques Gruber, so confirmed, would add a notable artistic dimension, linking the castle to the innovative currents of the era. The estate, still in the hands of the Bastard family, bears witness to a rare historical continuity.

External links