Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de La Mar, also known as Château de Cordon, is an ancient fortified house built in the 13th century on the Marestel hill in Jongieux (Savoie). Originally owned by the family of La Mar, attested from the 12th century, it passed into the hands of the Counts of Mareste in the 14th century, then was restored in 1625 for the marriage of Hélène de La Mar with Pierre de Cordon. Its architecture combines defensive elements (square towers) and Renaissance additions, such as an interior staircase and sill windows.

The seigneury of La Mar, linked to noble Savoyard families, has a turbulent history: infeudations, matrimonial alliances (especially with the Bertrands and the Montmayeur), and confiscation as a national good during the Revolution. The castle, the centre of an agricultural and winery since the 18th century, was sold in 1818 to General Count of Boigne, then to Count of Cordon in 1898. Since 2013, it has been home to guest rooms while maintaining its vineyard activity.

Among the notable characters, Berlion de La Mar (Chatelain de Groslée in 1319) and Antoine de La Mar (Lord of Yenne in 1392) illustrate the influence of the family. The strong house, cited in 1392, was also linked to the Aymavugna, who inherited it in 1409. The family's weapons, carved above the door in 1625, recall the repairs made for the wedding of Pierre de Cordon.

Architecturally, the castle consists of a house body flanked by two square towers, with a west facade pierced by 15th century sill windows. Inside, a reception room and a Renaissance staircase testify to post-medieval amenities. The 1625 shield, still visible, symbolizes the alliance between the Mar and Cordon, marking a turning point in the history of the estate.

After the Revolution, the castle changed hands several times: confiscated as a national good, it was sold in 1818 to General de Boigne, then returned to the Cordons in 1898. In the 20th century, it devoted itself to viticulture, an activity still current. Since 2013, the opening of guest rooms has diversified its use, while preserving its historical and architectural heritage.

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