Collège royal militaire, Historical monument in Eure-et-Loir, France.
The Collège royal militaire is a monumental stone structure with central courtyards, vaulted galleries, and grounds that stretch across the property. The landscaped gardens were carefully restored by renowned landscape architect Louis Benech to reflect their historical layout.
The institution was founded in 1630 by Henri de Bourbon-Verneuil, an illegitimate son of Henry IV. By 1776, it had become one of twelve royal military schools in France dedicated to training young officers.
The museum here traces how education evolved from the Tiron Order monks to military officer training, displaying royal portraits and personal accounts left by former students. Visitors can understand the place's role in shaping officers and its connection to French institutional life.
You can explore the property with audio guides narrated by Stéphane Bern and visit the tea salon for refreshments. Special evening visits with storytelling and candlelight can be arranged in advance for a more immersive experience.
The garden contains a giant sequoia and a ginkgo biloba tree, both officially recognized as remarkable trees in France and around 230 years old. These living plants have grown here longer than most visitors expect for such species.
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