Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château d'Épiry stands on the town of Saint-Émiland, in Saône-et-Loire, on the side of the hillside, isolated from the village. Its medieval architecture reveals a polygonal plan typical of the strong castles, marked by four round towers probably dating from the 14th century. These towers frame a central courtyard, once closed by a wall today replaced by a grid adorned with stone lions, accessible via a bridge spanning still visible moats. The Northwest Tower retains three stone steeples, while the southeast tower houses a 15th century chapel, decorated with a flamboyant swimming pool and old stained glass windows, where Roger de Rabutin was named.

The medieval house body, built in the 15th century, occupies the north side of the courtyard, with an interior facade more worked than its austere exterior. In the east, a large body of houses closed the court, bearing the date of 1717 on its eardrum. Its facade towards the park, symmetrical and decorated with a triangular pediment, extends beyond medieval towers. This castle, still privately owned, has been classified as a historic monument since 1975, with protection extensions in 2024.

The defensive elements (douves, braces, towers) testify to its past strategic role, while the additions of the 18th century reflect an evolution towards a more comfortable residence. The chapel, with its flamboyant decor, illustrates the religious and social importance of the site, linked to figures like Roger de Rabutin, whose baptism is attested to there.

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