Château de Bellefille, Medieval castle in Chemiré-le-Gaudin, France
Château de Bellefille is a 16th-century castle with fortified walls, an entrance gate, and several outbuildings located in the Sarthe. The complex spreads across a property that includes a dovecote and additional structures forming a complete estate ensemble.
The castle was built during the 16th century as an established structure in the region. In the 18th century it came under the ownership of Jacques-Nicolas Nepveu, who adopted a name reflecting his residence and became known as Nepveu de Bellefille.
The name reflects the attractive location the property held in the local landscape. The site remained connected to regional families who expressed their ties to the area through their choice to associate with this place.
The property is privately owned and visits require advance arrangements with the owners. It is best to contact the property beforehand to understand access conditions and possibility of visiting.
Canon Nepveu de la Manouillère documented his stays at his brother's residence in his personal writings. Those journal entries provide insight into how the castle fit into family life during the 18th century.
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