Château de la Berrière, Historical estate in Divatte-sur-Loire, France

The Château de la Berrière sits on a rectangular platform surrounded by water-filled moats, accessible via two bridges that lead to the main residence. Outbuildings flank the central structure, creating a complete estate complex with clearly defined spaces.

The seigneurial complex dates from the 14th century and passed through the Eder, Goulaine, Vaux and Sesmaisons families, who turned the moated stronghold into a residence. A fire on 10 March 1794 during the Vendée Wars destroyed the west wing and central block. Between 1800 and 1810 the Bascher family rebuilt the logis on the 1737 plan in Directoire style.

The west wing served as a painter's studio between 1908 and 1912, when artist Joseph de Bascher worked there and altered the original neoclassical balance of the building. This artistic phase left marks on the structure that visitors can still observe today.

The site is private and not open for regular visits; access is arranged through the association of the Friends of the Château de la Berrière, which organises events there. The moated platform is crossed by two bridges, the main one closed by a gate between pillars topped by reclining lions. A restoration dossier was submitted in 2018 and selected for the Loto du patrimoine.

The entrance gate is flanked by two stone pillars topped with sculpted lions, as the French listing describes them. The main bridge over the moat is closed by a metal grille between these pillars. Look for the lions before crossing to the residence.