The Château de Champs-sur-Marne, a distinguished historical estate, is situated in the scenic town of Champs-sur-Marne, within the Seine-et-Marne department of the Ile de France region. Positioned 18 kilometers east of Paris, this remarkable site encapsulates the seamless integration and mutual enhancement of a meticulously cultivated garden alongside a majestic castle, both of which have been preserved with care over the centuries. This harmonious blend not only showcases the architectural and horticultural splendor of the estate but also reflects a longstanding commitment to the protection and celebration of its rich heritage.
<
Description of Château de Champs-sur-Marne
The architectural design of the Château de Champs-sur-Marne, reminiscent of seventeenth-century castles like Blérancourt, features a main wing aligned with the principal gate, creating a secluded courtyard at the rear. This courtyard is discreetly partitioned from the adjoining roadway by a modest wall, accessible via a small leap. Constructed in a classic rectangular configuration, the château showcases on each of its grand facades three distinct porches: a U-shaped side preserving elements of the traditional Renaissance castle’s wings, front rails reminiscent of this era, and a central segment crowned with a dome visible both internally and externally. The salon offers panoramic views that seamlessly transition from the garden to the park, enriching the visual experience.
The central courtyard’s facade is elegantly adorned with Tuscan columns on the ground level and composite pilasters on the first floor, enhancing its rectangular and arch-shaped windows. Sculptural details, likely influenced by Pierre Bullet’s preliminary designs, grace the garden-facing central facade, featuring a central window accented by putti and a vase, a modification from Bullet and Chamblain’s original griffins. In 1832, traditional roof gears were replaced by an Italian-style terraced roof with balustrades. The grand staircases, encased within a vault extending to the roof, provide access to independently arranged rooms, linked by a central corridor, including a distinguished dining area.
The Gardens and Grounds of the Château de Champs-sur-Marne
Accredited as a “remarkable garden,” the castle’s gardens were initially designed in 1710 by Claude Desgots, embodying a French classical layout. The design features a central axis adorned with ponds and sculptures, flanked by a broad driveway lined with trees and a grass-covered median. In 1779, the gardens underwent significant modifications, introducing a vast green swathe that delineates the two water basins on the north-south axis adjacent to the castle. Subsequent renovations saw the removal of original parterres, leading to a comprehensive redesign in the English landscape style. The park, enriched with various statues replicating those in the Versailles park, adds historical depth and artistic value to the estate.
History of the Château de Champs-sur-Marne
The Château de Champs-sur-Marne, a masterpiece of classical architecture, was constructed between the early years of 1703 and 1706 by the renowned architect Pierre Bullet and his son Jean-Baptiste Bullet de Chamblain. This magnificent structure was erected to honor two of Louis XIV’s financial administrators: Charles Renouard de La Touanne and Paul Poisson de Bourvallais. The estate’s origins trace back to an earlier epoch, with the land being referenced in a charter of franchise dating from between 1079 and 1096. Throughout the late 17th century, the estate passed through numerous hands until 1698 when it was acquired by the treasurer of the Extraordinary Wars and Light Cavalry. Presently, the Château de Champs-sur-Marne stands as a prestigious property under the stewardship of the National Centre of National Monuments, showcasing its rich history and architectural elegance to the public.
Transfer from the Château de Champs-sur-Marne to Paris Airports
The Château de Champs-sur-Marne offers visitors a chance to explore a Renaissance gem, where every room dazzles with its original splendor and houses historical treasures. Guests are also invited to wander through the expansive park and partake in various activities, including historical celebrations that bring the past to life.
For a seamless and luxurious journey to or from the Château de Champs-sur-Marne, consider utilizing our premier transfer service. We provide an array of vehicle options to cater to your needs, ranging from collective shuttles and private cars to VIP luxury vehicles, all equipped for comfort and style. Rest assured, a skilled driver will enhance your experience, ensuring a memorable transit. The Château is conveniently located 30.2 km from Orly Airport, 110 km from Paris Beauvais Airport, and 33.6 km from Charles de Gaulle Airport, making it accessible for both local and international visitors seeking to immerse themselves in French history and culture.
