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Origin and history

Villemesle Castle has its origins on a Gallo-Roman site called Villa Merula ("the house of the merles"). In 1222 Jacques de Villemesle, the first seigneur, erected a fortress mentioned in 1403 as a "mote de Villemesle", with high, medium and low rights of justice. Destroyed during the Hundred Years' War, the estate remained in ruins until 1665, when René des Loges, lord and marshal of the King's armies, began his reconstruction.

In the 17th century, the castle took its present form, with major modifications in the following century: suppression of medieval outbuildings and construction of the communes in the forecourt, possibly according to the plans of André Le Nôtre (according to Abbé Peschot). The moat, wrought iron grilles and facades, typical of classical architecture, have been protected since 1992. The interior preserves 18th and 19th century woodwork, while a north pavilion, partially collapsed, bears witness to the ancient remains.

The castle has had a succession of influential lords, including the families of the Lodges, L-Hospital, or Thiroux, who marked its history between the 16th and 18th centuries. Linked to the seigneuries of Boisgasson, Langey and Bouffry, the estate illustrates the evolution of aristocratic residences in Eure-et-Loir, between medieval defensive function and classical residence. Today, private property, there remains a remarkable example of regional castral heritage.

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