Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Trie came into being in the 11th century, when the King of France Philippe I built it to defend the French Vexin. This castle, strategic for centuries, became a major issue during the Hundred Years' War: in 1418 it was taken by Henry V of England, which made it its headquarters. Its history is then marked by successive transformations, reflecting the political and architectural developments of the region.

In the 16th century, Adrienne d'Estouteville (wife of François de Bourbon) undertook modernization work, partially transforming the castle into a more comfortable residence. His son, Henri de Longueville, greatly enlarged the building in 1620, adding a Renaissance-style nine-castle and even welcoming King Henry IV. The estate then passed into the hands of great noble families: the Bourbon-Longueville, the Bourbon-Conti, and then Monsieur (future Louis XVIII), who became its owner in 1783. These hand changes illustrate its importance in the French aristocracy.

The French Revolution marked a tragic turning point: the castle, ruined, lost much of its buildings. In the 19th century, he was bought by Count Joseph-Arthur de Gobineau, diplomat and philosopher, who made him his residence. Today, there is only one part of the old castle (with medieval elements and a Renaissance staircase), as well as remains classified as a historical monument in 1956. Turned into a city hall, the site preserves the memory of its illustrious occupants, such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who would have stayed there.

Architecturally, the castle was composed at its peak of two distinct sets: the old castle (three medieval wings) and the nine castle (17th century). Among the protected elements are the round tower, half-round towers, a courtine wall, a vaulted room and Renaissance stairway, which bear witness to its prestigious past. Its evolution reflects the transitions between military fortress, aristocratic residence and communal building, embodying almost a millennium of French history.

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