Château de Bourmont

Owned by the same family for 25 generations, the Château de Bourmont dates back to the 14th century, and the remains of the ancient defensive structure are visible at the base of the moats and towers.

Site History

The origins of Bourmont date to the 14th century, but much of what remains today dates from the 15th through the 18th centuries. The remains of the ancient defensive structure are visible at the base of the wall of the dry moats and the towers. The Château de Bourmont was the birthplace of Louis-Auguste-Victor, Count de Ghaisnes de Bourmont, who captured Algiers in 1830 and was consequently made Marshal of France. In 1795, during the Chouannerie, the Viscount of Scépaux established his headquarters at the château. The château was set on fire during the French Revolution, and the damage caused resulted in vast restoration work during the 19th century. 

The current owners represent the 25th generation of the same family to oversee the château and surrounding estate. They have been living there since 2001.

About the Project

The restoration concerns the 18th-century moats and their support walls to the north and south. The chief architect on the project, Pascal Filatre, is a former FHS Richard Morris Hunt Fellow. The estate includes a 85-hectare park designed by landscape architect Eugène Bühler, enclosed by four kilometers of continuous walls. The moats comprise part of the overall design of the park and gardens. 

Bourmont Today

The château has experienced an increase in visitors, events and other activities since the recent restoration efforts to save the Saint John tower, which led to greater visibility thanks to media coverage and a crowdfunding campaign. The owners are also opening up the château’s vast private archives to historians who wish to consult them.