The Chateau de Cany is a castle located in Cany-Barville, a commune in the Seine-Maritime department of France. It was built between 1640 and 1656 by Pierre Le Marinier, a parliamentarian from Rouen, and according to the plans of François Mansart.
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The site has a rich history, having been occupied since medieval times. The first castle on this location was constructed in the 12th century. Over the subsequent centuries, it underwent several reconstructions and changes, adapting to the architectural preferences of the times.
The castle is a brick building of limestone and sandstone, in the Louis XIII style.
It is surrounded by a vast 30-hectare park, watered by the Durdent, which feeds into the moat.
Encircling this grand edifice is expansive parkland that exemplifies the grace of 19th-century English-style gardens. The presence of water features, manicured gardens, and wooded areas adds a touch of serenity to the overall landscape, providing visitors with a chance to stroll through history and nature simultaneously.
For many years, the castle hosted the international horse and buggy championship event. This event consistently drew large crowds and was a significant highlight in the region's calendar. However, due to the harm the horses inflicted on the park, the owner decided to discontinue hosting it.
The castle was not damaged during the French Revolution and remained in the Le Marinier family until 1830, when it was sold to the House of Montmorency. The Montmorency family made some changes to the castle, including adding a new wing and a chapel.
The castle is currently owned by a private individual (Antoine et Gillonne de Dreux-Brézé - The Dreux-Brézé family is a surviving family of the French nobility, originally from Poitou, and established in Paris by the end of the 17th century. It was ennobled by the position of counselor-secretary to the king in 1594-1614. In 1682, Thomas de Dreux acquired the lordship of Brézé (Maine-et-Loire), for which he was made marquis in 1685.) and is not open to the public. However, it can be seen from the outside and the park and central yard are open to visitors during the summer.
Years ago, the inside was visible for tours. Here are some photos of the inside:
Here are some of the notable features of the Château de Cany:
The main façade is 100 meters long and has seven bays.
The interior of the castle has a grand staircase, a large ballroom, and a number of other rooms.
The park surrounding the castle is landscaped and has a number of fountains and statues.
The castle is located in a strategic position, on a hill overlooking the valley of the Durdent.
The Château de Cany is a beautiful and well-preserved example of a 17th-century castle. It is listed as a historical monument by the French government.