Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Chenonceau Castle, built between 1513 and 1521 by Katherine Briçonnet on the foundations of a 13th century fortified mill, embodies the alliance between Italian art and French style. Located on horseback on the Cher, it owes its nickname of "Château des Dames" to the women who marked it: Diane de Poitiers, favorite d'Henri II, adds a bridge (1556-1559) to connect the banks, while Catherine de Medici superimposes two galleries on this bridge, creating a unique ballroom. The estate, a witness to the intrigues of the Renaissance, also became a place of contemplation under Louise de Lorraine, widow of Henry III, who installed a black and white funeral decor.

In the 18th century, Louise Dupin, figure of Enlightenment, saved the castle during the Revolution by transforming it into a "wood reserve" and hiding its archives. Its lounge welcomes Voltaire, Rousseau and Montesquieu. In the 19th century, Marguerite Pelouze undertook a controversial restoration (1865-1878), removing additions by Catherine de Medici to restore a supposed "original" state. Félix Roguet, its architect, reconstructs the north facade and the apartments of Louise de Lorraine, while adding historical frescoes to the large gallery.

Acquired in 1913 by the Menier family, the castle became a military hospital during the First World War (1914-1918), welcoming 2,254 wounded. The Meniers then preserve the estate, restore the gardens and open the site to the public. Today, Chenonceau remains a major private monument, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017, celebrated for its bold architecture and its history intimately linked to prominent female figures, from Renaissance to contemporary times.

External links