Château de Brécy, Historical castle in Saint-Gabriel-Brécy, France.
Château de Brécy is a castle in Normandy featuring four ascending terraces connected by convex steps that lead to a grand gate. The terraces widen progressively toward the top and open toward the sky, creating a carefully composed garden design.
Construction of the castle began in the 17th century and finished in the 18th century, receiving recognition as a historical monument in 1903. This extended building period reflects the careful planning required for the terraces and gardens.
The gardens display classical French design with clipped hedges, stone railings, and rotating seasonal flowers such as tulips and peonies. Visitors can observe how these elements work together to create a space that conveys order and refinement.
The castle and gardens are open to visitors and offer guided tours that showcase the architectural features and garden design. It is advisable to wear sturdy shoes as the terraces and pathways include steep sections.
The terraces are designed to increase in width toward the top, creating an optical illusion that enhances the perspective along the central pathway. This refined design principle makes the structure appear larger than it actually is.
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