Château des Millets

Built in the 15th century, this fortified château is situated on an estate designed for self-sufficiency, a tenet that informs preservation of the site.

Site History

This fortified château from the end of the 15th century was embellished with a Renaissance façade in the 16th century. Its interior decor dates from the 18th century, though elements were added in the 19th century. The estate is designed for self-sufficiency, complete with a fishpond, stables, a dairy, vegetable gardens, orchards, a wine press and wine cellars, a bread oven, watercress cultivation and more. 

The library, created in the 1940s, features sculptures that evoke the then-owner’s passion for philately. In the kitchen are two friezes, one by illustrator Benjamin Rabier, known for his Vache qui rit (Laughing Cow) labels on the cheese of the same name. These are in the process of being landmarked.

About the Project

The château’s roof is in urgent need of restoration. The roof encompasses 550 square meters and will be restored in phases. This phase concerns about 75% of that surface. Tiles are cracked and falling off in places, allowing water infiltration in many areas. The numerous urgent repairs on the roof led to the discovery of an original tile dating from 1621. Only historical tiles will be used in the restoration, along with other traditional materials, including copper. Skilled artisans were carefully selected to carry out the historic restoration work, which will begin in May 2022.

Château des Millets Today

The castle and its grounds are registered as a historic monument. The concept of self-sufficiency is an important one to the owners and a focus of their current and future development of the site.