During one of my tours in France, I found myself compelled to stop and take pictures of an abandoned French castle. Though its interior may not be particularly attractive, the magnificent fairytale ruins and compelling story make it truly remarkable.
The present castle was built by a Marquis and his wife on the site of a more ancient castle from the fifteenth century, which was destroyed during the war. The only part of the original fourteenth-century castle that remained was a great tower topped by a steep roof.
Reconstruction of the castle lasted over 25 years and required significant financial resources. Work began in 1858, only to be interrupted during the war of 1870, and finally resumed in 1875. All plans, drawings, woodwork, wrought iron, and stone sculptures were created by the Marquis himself, without the aid of an architect.
The abandoned French castle, designed in Gothic Revival style, was built to reaffirm an identity and the presence of a glorious past during the Revolution. The childless couple decided to leave the castle to a Count pretender to the French throne. It was inhabited until the early 1900s, after which it began its slow decline. Furniture, sculptures, and decorations that once graced the halls were looted.
Inside the abandoned French castle, there are two beautiful fireplaces designed by the Marquis’s wife. One, in the “great room,” is white and carved in stone, depicting Saint Martin giving half of his cloak to a poor man. The second, located in the billiard room, is called “The Battle.” There is also a stunning Gothic chapel inspired by the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, dedicated to the Sacred Heart and St. Martin. An upper balcony from the master bedroom overlooks the chapel, allowing the Marquis to attend mass.
Unfortunately, the abandoned French castle is now reduced to a pile of rubble. Yet, it still holds a surprising charm. The high tower, though thin and fragile, still stands tall, symbolizing its power until its last day.
