Château de Villesavin (Loir-et-Cher)

Site History

Built between 1527 and 1537 for Jean Le Breton, Lord of Villandry and Secretary of Finance for King Francis I, the Château de Villesavin is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. Le Breton, who also oversaw the construction of the nearby Château de Chambord, crafted Villesavin into an emblematic site that heralds the classical style through the harmony and symmetry of its façades. Inspired by Italian Renaissance villas, Villesavin benefitted from the skills of Italian artists provided by Francis I from the royal court, and its lines and motifs clearly evoke those of Chambord.

The main body of the building has only one floor, which gives it a sense of lightness and elegance. The round towers, typical of the Renaissance, have been replaced by symmetrical square pavilions, adding a touch of modernity to the château’s architecture.

About the Restoration

The ongoing restoration project focuses on four dormer windows on the garden side, aiming to preserve and highlight this unique architectural heritage. This initiative reflects the importance of Villesavin in the history of French architecture and its role in the evolution of the classical style.

Château de Villesavin Today
The former stables of the château house an important collection of horse-drawn carriages and children’s carriages, all dating from the 19th century. The owners also plan to create a pollinator garden in what was once the vegetable garden, occupying an area of one hectare and featuring a covered beehive. By opening this nourishing garden to the public, they aim to raise awareness among young people about climate issues and the preservation of biodiversity.

Dormer windows

$25,000

Chicago Midwest, New York, and Philadelphia Chapters, Danny Kaye and Silvia Fine Kaye Foundation

2025