Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Façades and roofs, as well as the two 15th century chimneys (cad. AB 125): inscription by order of 15 June 1987
Key figures
M. et Mme Gentilhomme - Owners-restaurants
Purchase and catering since 1985.
Origin and history
The Châtelaison mansion, formerly called La Grand' Maison, is an emblematic building from the early 16th century, although its origins date back to the second half of the 15th century. Located in Saint-Georges-sur-Layon (Maine-et-Loire), it is distinguished by its asymmetrical facade in tuffeau stone, decorated with flamboyant Gothic motifs. Four ground openings dominate the ensemble, while an excreted turret houses a screw staircase serving the floors. At the back, a square structure overlooks the Le Layon River, rebuilt during modern restorations on old foundations.
The manor house has undergone several architectural changes over the centuries: the western part of the south wing is said to date from the 16th or 17th century, while house renovations and a south wing were added in the 18th and 19th centuries. The original windows were restored during its restoration in the 1980s, led by Mr. and Mrs. Gentilhomme, who acquired the site in 1985 in a state of advanced decay. Their work also includes the reconstruction of the rear tower and the creation of a garden walk, worth at the mansion the special prize of the VMF jury for its harmony between heritage and contemporary garden.
Ranked a historic monument in 1987, the mansion protects its façades, roofs and two 15th century fireplaces. Today's carpentry and stained glass windows are inspired by contemporary models, such as the front door, reproduced after a copy kept in a museum in Le Mans. Despite the absence of skylights (planned but never built?), the building illustrates the architecture of Renaissance Angelvine, mixing medieval heritage and subsequent adaptations.
Sources indicate an approximate location (45 Rue de Chatelaison, Doué-en-Anjou), although the official address remains Saint-Georges-sur-Layon. The site, partially open to the public, could offer visits or services such as guest rooms, although these details are not confirmed by the available texts.
