Château de Mortiercrolles (Mayenne)

Site History

In the early 14th century, Mortiercrolles was a fortified enclosure. At the end of the 15th century, Pierre de Rohan transformed it into a pleasure residence designed in the Louis XII style. Today, water-filled moats surround the medieval enclosure, which contains the gatehouse, main residence, chapel, granaries and cellars, and stables. FHS supported the Château de Mortiercrolles in 2012 through a grant from our Dallas Chapter.

About the Restoration

The restoration project focuses on the five dormer windows of the gatehouse, which are particularly notable as examples of Second French Renaissance architecture from the latter half of the 16th century. Each large dormer window bears a beautiful coat of arms of the Rohan-Guémené family, still visible today. In early 2024, a heritage architect conducted a preliminary study of these dormers, revealing their very poor condition and urgent need for restoration. Some parts have already disappeared, and pieces of tuffeau stone frequently detach, resulting in the loss of valuable historical elements. Restoration work began in July 2024 to preserve this unique treasure of historical heritage.

Château de Mortiercrolles Today
The Château de Mortiercrolles is open for visits daily from July 15 to August 31, and it welcomes groups of at least 30 people by appointment year-round. The owners organize activities during European Heritage Days, such as demonstrations of clay spindle-making for the restoration of French-style ceilings, as well as a selection of concerts in the chapel and exhibitions throughout the year.

Gatehouse dormer windows

$20,000

Paris Chapter, Danny Kaye and Silvia Fine Kaye Foundation

2025