Château de Guiry-en-Vexin

Built in 1665 by François Mansart for André II de Guiry, the Château de Guiry-en-Vexin is a remarkable example of classical 17th-century architecture. Still in the same family today, it has retained its authenticity and stands at the heart of a property listed as a historic monument since 1944.

Site History

The Guiry family has occupied the site since the Middle Ages, playing an active role in defending the Vexin region of Normandy. Constructed in 1665 by François Mansart, architect to Louis XIII, the château reflects the rigor and elegance of French classicism.

The estate includes formal gardens, a water mirror and parklands. Archaeological excavations in the ruins of the medieval château have enriched knowledge of the site. Since the 19th century, the property has been transmitted through the female line, most recently to the de Montfort family. Successive generations have maintained the château, gardens and commons with care, enabling it to survive in exceptional condition.

About the Project

The project, directed by Alice Capron-Valat, Architecte en Chef des Monuments Historiques, includes restoration of the 21 oak windows of the château’s west façade, encompassing replacement of damaged glass, repair of woodwork and repainting with historically documented pigments; restoration of three windows of the southern commons; and full restoration of the grille d’honneur (honor gate). Later phases (2025 onward, pending approval by the Direction régionale des affaires culturelles) will address the east façade, gable windows and remaining commons, for an estimated total of €300,000.

Château de Guiry-en-Vexin Today

The château remains a private residence, inhabited year-round. Open to the public since 1980, it welcomes about 5,000 visitors annually, with offerings including guided tours and private visits. In addition to participating in the Rendez-vous aux Jardins and Journées du Patrimoine, it hosts theater productions, concerts, seminars and film shoots.

Cultural partnerships enrich the château’s activities, which include concerts with the Festival d’Auvers-sur-Oise, events with the Musée archéologique du Val-d’Oise, biodiversity programs with the Ligue pour la protection des Oiseaux and inclusive access projects with Escapade liberté mobilité. In 2024, the owners launched the association Châteaux privés du Vexin, bringing together 12 privately inhabited châteaux to promote their heritage and create shared cultural events.