Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Vaugrenier, located in Villeneuve-Loubet in the Alpes-Maritimes, has its origins in the early 16th century. According to the sources, Anne de Lascaris and her husband, René de Savoie, started its construction in 1520 in an Italian style. René's death in 1525 during the Battle of Pavie interrupted the work, leaving the castle unfinished. The land, initially covering 150 hectares, formed a complete agricultural estate with meadows, wood and crops.

In the mid-17th century, in 1650, Jacques du Laurens, heir to the estate, added a Baroque chapel on the noble floor. The castle changed hands around 1750, passing to the family of Countess Elizabeth of Vansay, the current owner. The estate was largely expropriated between 1960 and 1963 to create the Vaugrenier Departmental Park, leaving only 3.5 hectares around the castle.

Ranked a historic monument in 1992 for its mansion and outbuildings, the castle is distinguished by its Palladian architecture, vaulted rooms and its chapel decorated with stucco. The restored old sheepfolds and barns now serve as reception rooms. In 2005, he was awarded the "Historical Heritage" Award from Old French Houses, highlighting his architectural and historical value.

The site, open to private visits via the Tourist Office of Villeneuve-Loubet, bears witness to the evolution of a seigneurial estate in a preserved historic place. Its blend of Italian and Baroque styles, as well as its history linked to noble families, make it a remarkable example of the Azurean heritage.

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