Château de Menou, 17th-century castle in Menou, France.
Château de Menou is a 17th-century castle featuring a central pavilion topped with a bell tower and two square pavilions flanking the main building. The estate includes French-style gardens accessible through a gate decorated with the Menou-Damas family coat of arms.
Architect Barthélemy Le Blanc built the castle between 1672 and 1684 for Colonel François de Menou, replacing the earlier Nanvignes Castle on the same site. The structure suffered damage during German occupation but was extensively restored afterward.
The name reflects the family who shaped the property for centuries. Visitors can still see how the courtyard once served as a seat of local authority through its former courthouse and prison buildings.
The castle is easily accessed from outside and the gardens can be explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the grounds takes time.
After its restoration, locals nicknamed it 'Little Versailles' for its architectural splendor. This nickname reflects how the complete renovation impressed the community.
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