Château de Maisons

The Château de Maisons is a 17th-century castle in Maisons-Laffitte with symmetrical facades, intricate carved stone details, and multiple roof levels showcasing French architecture of that era. The building features a central section with side wings, where the main area is emphasized by a wide open staircase and tall windows.

Architect François Mansart designed and built this residence between 1634 and 1646 for René de Longueuil, a wealthy Paris Parliament member. The building later passed through several families and briefly served as a military barracks before becoming a protected monument.

The interior rooms reveal how wealthy families lived in the 1600s, with ornate fireplaces, carved wooden ceilings, and spaces designed for social gatherings. You can still understand which rooms were meant for displaying status and which served everyday purposes.

Visit during warmer months when the gardens are green and natural light fills the rooms beautifully. Planning your visit is straightforward since it is open most days and information is readily available on-site.

The wide open staircase at the center was a new idea for French castles and became a model for many buildings afterward. This innovation allowed large staircases to be built without walls, making the interior spaces feel more open and bright.

Location: Maisons-Laffitte

Inception: 17 century

Architects: François Mansart

Architectural style: baroque architecture, Classicism

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Address: 2, avenue Carnot

Website: https://chateau-maisons.fr

GPS coordinates: 48.94719,2.15384

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:01