THE CHÂTEAU OF VALENÇAY: THE FAMOUS HOME OF TALLEYRAND
Travel back in time at the Château of Valençay! In the south of the Loire Valley, the former home of the great diplomat Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand bears testimony to the French art de vivre in the 19th century, which continues to amaze us today. This sumptuous residence is the jewel in the crown of a magnificent 53-hectare park. Come and admire the remarkable collections in the château, stroll through the gardens bordered by the vast wooded estate and marvel at the amazing details in the little theatre hidden in the annexes!
DISCOVER THE CHÂTEAU OF VALENÇAY
THE CHÂTEAU OF VALENÇAY: A CLEVER BLEND OF STYLES
The history of the Château of Valençay truly began in the 15th and 16th centuries with the Estampes family, who transformed the former feudal manor into a Renaissance château. The architecture of the château is a striking but harmonious medley of styles, from the medieval airs of the Entrance Pavilion that resembles a keep and the machicolations on the North-West Tower, to the Renaissance elegance of the finely carved decors, such as the scallop-shell motifs on the North-West Tower, which are the same as those you will find at Blois or Chambord. During your visit, you will no doubt be charmed by the fineness of these architectural features. Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, who was Napoleon’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, acquired the château in the early 19th century, encouraged by the emperor who wanted him to have a “fine property in which to receive diplomatic missions”. Talleyrand made numerous modifications, particularly to the park and gardens.
THE REMARKABLE COLLECTIONS OF THE CHÂTEAU OF VALENÇAY
The tour of the château reveals the sumptuous lifestyle of its owner. Talleyrand left a precious collection at Valençay that testifies to his marked taste for fine things. From furniture to paintings, statues and historical artefacts, the château displays works ranging from Louis XV to the Restoration! Admire the lavish furniture in the Grand Salon and the Blue Room, particularly the Louis XVI-period bureau à gradin with its gilded decoration: a true wonder! Everything at Valençay testifies to the elegance and luxurious lifestyle of the master of the house, including the kitchens which reveal his passion for gastronomy! You can just imagine the sumptuousness of the grand receptions that were held in the midst of this stunning decor! Later on, the Château of Valençay played an important role during the Second World War by housing artworks from the Louvre Museum.
A MUST-SEE AT THE CHÂTEAU: THE LITTLE EMPIRE THEATRE
The annexes of the château house a hidden gem: a magnificent little theatre with decor inspired by Antiquity. You can admire its enchanting First French Empire style during guided tours and the Talleyrand Festival, when concerts are performed on period instruments.
VISIT THE SPLENDID GARDENS OF THE CHÂTEAU OF VALENÇAY
The Château of Valençay is also a magnificent 53-hectare park with a range of spaces to explore. Several gardens punctuate the visit, from the French-Style Garden designed in the early 20th century, to the Duchess’ Garden with its stunning views of one of the rare preserved hunting lodges in France. Continue your tour in the direction of the Pleasure Garden, where you can sit back and enjoy a well-earned rest! The Princes’ Forest, which includes a hidden bat cave listed as a Natura 2000 natural heritage site, can be explored on foot or in an electric buggy, while the Deer Park, which already existed in the time of Talleyrand, allows you to admire these beautiful animals.
The château’s park also offers an exciting opportunity for children in the form of the biggest maze game in France! Young explorers can follow a trail punctuated with puzzles and walk in the footsteps of Napoleon in a 2m-high and 2,000m² maze. After exiting it, they can continue their adventure in the playground with its château, bridges and slides, or go to meet the animals in the little farm in the park!
Events at the Château of Valençay
FAQ
Where can I park at the Château of Valençay?
Several free car parks are available near the château and there are spaces for bicycles at the entrance to the ticket offices. You can also walk to the Château of Valençay in just ten minutes from the train station.
What is the best way to book a visit to the Château of Valençay?
Save time and prepare your visit to the Château of Valençay by booking your ticket via the link below!
