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Origin and history

The strong house of Montherot, also known as the Sauvage Castle, is an ancient fortified house built in the 14th century, then deeply transformed in the 17th and 20th centuries. Located on the town of Balan in the department of Ain, it illustrates the architectural evolution of the fortified houses, moving from a medieval defensive vocation to a contemporary residential and educational use. Its history is marked by successive renovations, notably under the impetus of local noble families, and its adaptation to modern needs since 1968.

In the 17th century, Condé's family, already owner of the Condé hotel in Montluel, undertook major renovations in the fortified house. This redesign reflects the influence of large aristocratic families on local heritage, while preparing the monument for a transition to less military uses. The strong house, originally designed for defence, sees its role evolve towards a more residential and symbolic function, integrated into the heritage strategies of the seigneurs of the region.

In 1752, the estate of Balan and its strong house were acquired by Pierre de Montherot, a noble also possessed at Béligneux, in order to finance works in Montluel's hospice. The arms of the family of Monsterot, still visible today, become even the coat of arms of the city of Balan. The same year, the chapel of the fort house was blessed by Pierre Guérin de Tencin, then Archbishop of Lyon, thus marking his religious and social importance. The Montherot weapons, affixed to the porch of the chapel and the chimney, testify to their grip on the place.

In the 19th century, the strong house passed into the hands of the Sauvage family of Saint-Marc, who became its owner in 1877. This change in ownership marks a new step in the history of the monument, although little is known about the changes made during this period. The building nevertheless retains its prestige and historical character, preparing the land for its contemporary use.

Since 1968, Montherot's stronghold has been home to a rural family home (MFR), a school specializing in food trades. The various buildings have been designed to accommodate educational and accommodation spaces, while the chapel, once a place of worship, now serves as an application restaurant. This reconversion illustrates the ability of the historical heritage to adapt to modern educational and social needs, while preserving its architectural and cultural identity.

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