Château du Grand Perron, Heritage castle in Pierre-Bénite, France
Château du Grand Perron is a castle in Pierre-Bénite featuring a Renaissance north facade decorated with Corinthian columns. A grand staircase leads to a court of honor that reveals the original design of the estate.
King Francis I authorized Claude Besson in 1518 to renovate the ancient fortress, beginning major architectural changes. The Renaissance style that defines the castle today emerged from this renovation period.
The Gondi family shaped this place into a seat of authority in the region. Albert de Gondi, who would later become Marshal of France, left his mark on the estate.
The castle now functions as part of a hospital complex and a modern student residence in a U-shaped building with about 180 rooms. Visitors should check access conditions beforehand since the site serves an institutional purpose.
Inside the castle stands a monumental fireplace bearing the Gondi family coat of arms, showing Italian influences in French design. This piece reflects the cultural connections between the two nations during the Renaissance period.
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