Château de Cornay

Château de Cornay is a Renaissance castle built around a main residential structure with a perpendicular wing, square towers, and slate roofing topped by decorated dormers. The facade combines locally quarried yellow Buzancy stone with Gaize rubble to create a distinctive patterned appearance on its primary elevation.

The Pouilly family constructed this castle in the 1600s on ground where a feudal fortress once stood before being destroyed during the religious conflicts of earlier centuries. This replacement shifted the site from military defense to residential use.

The winemaker's entrance features sculptural work by Jean Baptiste Noailles from 1830 dedicated to Saint Vincent, who watches over wine producers. This decoration reveals how wine and this building have been tied together over time.

The exterior of the castle can be viewed by prior arrangement from Monday through Saturday. It is best to contact in advance to schedule a visit and confirm availability.

The building employs yellow Buzancy stone from nearby quarries, giving it a distinctive coloration that sets it apart from similar structures in the region. This local material, mixed with darker Gaize, creates a patterned look on the walls.

Location: Cornay

GPS coordinates: 49.30281,4.94910

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:24