Château de Chémery, Medieval and Renaissance castle in Chémery, France
Château de Chémery is a castle combining medieval fortifications with a Renaissance wing, representing two distinct building periods. The structure sits within protective moats and is accessed by a wooden footbridge that connects the main entrance to the inner areas.
The castle originates from the 13th century and was owned by noble families such as Chalon-Tonnerre and Beauvilliers before becoming a farm during the 18th century. This transformation marked a significant shift in how the structure was used and maintained.
The castle functions as a venue for weddings and celebrations, allowing visitors to experience how nobles once lived within its walls. Families and guests gather in rooms that have hosted important people throughout the centuries.
The castle offers guided tours and provides several guest rooms for overnight stays, each with its own character and historical details. Visitors should plan for a leisurely visit to properly experience both the architecture and the surrounding countryside.
French singer Alain Souchon spent his childhood within these walls, and the castle houses a piano believed to have been played by King Francis I and Leonardo da Vinci. This instrument connects two major Renaissance figures to the location in an unexpected way.
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