Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Villiers, located in Chassy in the Cher department, has its origins between 1410 and 1427, when Guillaume Fouchier, the squire of the Duke of Berry, began its construction. This first building, of medieval style, marks the beginning of a complex architectural history, characterized by an organization in two distinct courses. The name "Villiers" was later given to him in 1520, when René Thizart, treasurer of François I's Scottish Guard, acquired the seigneury and renamed the estate, formerly called Champ Raymbault.

In the 17th century, the castle underwent important changes: the buildings of the communes, arranged in quadrilateral around a courtyard, were rebuilt, while a square pigeon-house, also serving as a carterway, was erected in their axis. During this period, one of the two houses surrounding the main courtyard was destroyed (from 1652), the filled moat, and the chapel and covered driveway connecting the houses were demolished in 1778. These changes reflect a shift towards less defensive and more residential use.

The 19th century saw the addition of a stone windmill, of a tower type, still partially equipped with its mechanisms and grinders today. This mill, located close to the castle, completes an architectural complex with medieval remains, classical amenities and utility elements. The facades, roofs, a decorated living room and mill have been protected as Historic Monuments since 1981, highlighting the heritage value of this site with multiple historical strata.

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