Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château du Blanc-Buisson is a feudal residence built at the end of the 13th century, in 1290, by Colinet Lecomte, connetable of Charles the Bad, ally of the English. Its "I"-shaped structure, composed of a winged house and a square dungeon, reflects its defensive origin. Partly destroyed in 1355 during the Hundred Years' War, it was rebuilt after 1474 by Jean du Merle, following his marriage to Marie Le Conte de Nonant, and then reworked by their son Jacques I du Merle in the 16th century in a Renaissance style, reusing ancient stones.

In the 18th century, a fire ravaged the north wing, causing new work. Sold in 1801 by the Merle family, the property passed into the hands of the La Fresnaye family, which transformed it in the 19th century. For some 30 years, the castle, restored by the Association pour la promotion du Blanc-Buisson (ASPROB), has hosted cultural events (festivals, school visits) and seminars since 2018. Its park and facades, surrounded by moat, have been listed as historic monuments since 1949 and 1952.

Among the notable figures, Jean IV du Merle, Baron d'Orbec and Commander of Lisieux, illustrated himself as a companion of the Duke of Monpensier against the leaguers and the Spaniards. The writer Jean de La Varende (XX century) spent part of his childhood there, adding a literary dimension to the history of the place. The castle thus embodies almost seven centuries of architectural and social evolution, mixing medieval heritage, Renaissance and modern adaptations.

Future

It hosts numerous events (Sounds and Lights, Performing Arts Festival, school visits, etc.).

External links