Castle of Fougères-sur-Bièvre

Nestled in the serene landscape of the Loire Valley, Fougères-sur-Bièvre Castle stands as a remarkable symbol of medieval architecture and French history. Originally part of a modest seigneurie during the tumultuous Hundred Years' War, this castle has witnessed the evolution of France from medieval times to the present day.

The origins of Fougères-sur-Bièvre can be traced back to the 15th century when Pierre de Refuge, a trusted advisor to King Charles VII and later a high-ranking official under Louis XI, acquired the estate. In 1470, with royal permission, Pierre began constructing a fortified residence, a tangible reflection of his rising status and influence. The castle was designed to impress, featuring a drawbridge, machicolations, watchtowers, and arrow slits—hallmarks of a true medieval fortress, even if its strategic importance was minimal given the flat terrain surrounding it.

Despite its formidable exterior, Fougères-sur-Bièvre was built with comfort in mind, a rare luxury for the time. The main tower, or donjon, boasted residential floors equipped with fireplaces, large windows, and even latrines, a testament to the advanced hygiene standards of the era. The castle's courtyard, adorned with intricate sculptures, added to the grandeur of this noble residence.

The Renaissance Touch

After Pierre de Refuge, the estate passed to his nephew, Jean de Villebresme, in 1510. Jean completed the castle’s construction, gradually shifting its style from Gothic to Renaissance. He added a chapel in 1520 and an elegant arcaded gallery that connected the chapel to the main tower, reminiscent of the architectural elements found in the nearby Château de Blois.

As the centuries passed, Fougères-sur-Bièvre gradually lost its appeal to successive owners. By the time of the French Revolution, it had become little more than an aged building, maintained by the estate’s farmers. In 1789, René Lambot, an engineer and advisor to King Louis XVI, purchased the property, integrating it into his neighboring estate, Château de Boissay.

The 19th century saw the castle repurposed into a textile workshop under the management of René Lambot’s heir. A turbine-driven waterwheel was installed in the chapel, and the Bièvre River was diverted to power the machinery. This period of industrial activity marked a significant shift in the castle's function, but by 1901, the textile business had declined, and the workshop was replaced by a sawmill, which also failed by 1911.

Preservation and Restoration

Fougères-sur-Bièvre faced neglect and deterioration until it was designated a historical monument in 1912. In 1932, the French state acquired the castle, initiating extensive restoration efforts. The work, which included the reconstruction of the arrow slits, the chapel’s entrance wall, and the large chimneys, took several years. The most challenging task was repairing the roof, which required the expertise of six craftsmen working for two and a half years to cover the 4,500 square meters using traditional materials and techniques.

During World War II, Fougères-sur-Bièvre played a crucial role as a safe haven for priceless artifacts, including the famous tapestry "The Lady and the Unicorn," sculptures by Rodin, and the stained glass windows from Chartres Cathedral. This little-known chapter of the castle's history highlights its importance beyond its architectural beauty.

Today, Fougères-sur-Bièvre is managed by the Centre des monuments nationaux and is open to visitors who wish to explore its rich history and architectural splendor. The castle, with its mix of medieval fortifications and Renaissance elegance, offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Visitors can explore the castle for an individual fee of €7.00, with free admission available during the European Heritage Days (the third weekend of September) and on the first Sunday of the month from January to March and November to December.
Discover the timeless charm of Fougères-sur-Bièvre and immerse yourself in the stories of those who once walked its halls—this historical gem awaits your visit!