Château Hesse de Flixecourt
Château Hesse de Flixecourt is a large mansion in Flixecourt built around 1820 in neoclassical style. The building consists of two main sections, with the older part constructed in brick featuring a grand columned portico and balcony, while the newer section is built in Louis XIII style with decorative stone details.
An original castle was built in 1598 by Louis de la Marsonnière but fell into ruin during the French Revolution. The current mansion replaced these remains and was later significantly transformed by Alexandre Hesse in the 19th century, with additions in Louis XIII style and a round rotonde building.
The name Hesse comes from the family who shaped the estate in the 19th century and expressed their ambition through its architecture. The grounds are now used for events and gatherings, showing how historical places adapt to new purposes while maintaining their connection to the past.
The estate is sprawling with mature trees and several buildings to explore, so allow time for a leisurely walk around the grounds. Paths connect the main house to the rotonde and various outbuildings, making it easy to see the different parts of the property at your own pace.
A notable feature was a heart-shaped staircase on the south side, built by François Alexandre Hesse as a sign of love for his beloved and inspired by a famous staircase at Château de Fontainebleau. Sadly, this distinctive staircase was destroyed by bombing during World War II, a loss that reflects the impact of war on the estate.
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