- Structure of Château de Fleury-en-Bière
- History of the Château de Fleury-en-Bière
- Key Events Castle Fleury-en-Bière
- Visit Château de Fleury-en-Bière
The Château de Fleury-en-Bière, a distinguished estate, is situated within the charming town of Fleury-en-Bière, nestled in the department of Seine-et-Marne. This historic château stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of French château living.
Structure of Château de Fleury-en-Bière
The Château de Fleury-en-Bière, constructed from a blend of brick and stone rubble, features elements reserved for common use and the wall of the forecourt. It boasts a doubled main building, enhanced with an attic and a new round tower on the south-west corner. The facade, adorned in brick, is highlighted by sandstone bands that accentuate the bays’ rhythm. The north wing, dating back to 1553, was elevated by the son of the architect, Simon Guillain, alongside Jean Saulvaige. It includes two layered galleries connecting to an old square corner tower. Its front courtyard draws inspiration from the Château de Fontainebleau’s courtyard, enriching the architectural dialogue between the two estates. Additionally, the château was extended with a new principal building. The courtyard facade features a horseshoe-shaped staircase, offering a unique spatial arrangement within the castle grounds. From the entrance, the castle unfolds into sumptuous architectures that contrast with the court, enclosed on the street side by a monumental wall. To the right and rear, the magnificent Romanesque chapel, now a parish church, stands, containing frescoes by Nicolo dell’Abate, an artist with ties to Fontainebleau.
History of the Château de Fleury-en-Bière
Constructed in the sixteenth century, the Château de Fleury-en-Bière was owned by Chancellor Henry II’s Cosme Clausse in 1552, who also took possession of Courances. He bequeathed it to his younger son, leaving the estate encumbered with debt. Cosme initiated the reconstruction of the dilapidated castle, entrusting the project to master mason Gilles Le Breton with the vision of erecting two bracket-shaped buildings, the first embodying three-fifths of the current castle. In 1770, Jérôme Argouges, the estate’s new proprietor, undertook its redevelopment and modernization. Between 1910 and 1914, the Countess of Béhague commissioned architect Rahir to refurbish the castle. By the 1620s, notary and king’s secretary Claude I Gallard, decided to demolish the old structure entirely, constructing a new edifice reflective of Louis XIII style architectures, showcasing his considerable wealth. The castle’s legacy is notably marked by the influence of two women from his family, particularly in the park, known as “the ladies of Courances.” Subsequently, the Nicolay family took ownership, until Samuel Haber purchased it in 1872, engaging architect Destaileurs for reconstruction, with the park restored by Jean Baptiste Chaussards around 1769. During World War II, the château served as a military hospital.
Key Events at Château Fleury-en-Bière
The Château de Fleury-en-Bière has been recognized as a historical monument since December 17, 1947, for its park, its architecture, and common areas. The facades and roofs received their own distinguished classification on October 5, 1951. This château has hosted a number of illustrious figures throughout history, including Henry IV, Sully, La Grande Mademoiselle, and the Duchess of Berry, marking it as a site of significant historical and cultural importance.
Visiting Château de Fleury-en-Bière
The Château de Fleury-en-Bière opens its gates to the public for exploration during the Heritage Days, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the grandeur of French heritage. Visitors are invited to enjoy the expansive park, featuring an 800-meter-long canal and various pathways, making it an ideal setting for leisurely walks and family outings. To enhance your visit to the Château de Fleury-en-Bière, our service suggests utilizing a reliable transport service. We recommend booking a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle through our agency for a seamless journey to this historic site. Our fleet includes a range of options from collective shuttles and private cars to VIP luxury vehicles, ensuring a memorable visit with a dedicated driver at your disposal.