A bit of history
A medieval château
The first construction of the Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre dates back to the 11th century. Partially destroyed during the early days of the Hundred Years’ War by Edward III of England, only the keep survived. When the English finally left in 1429, the château was in ruins. A few years later, Pierre de Refuge, treasurer to King Louis XI, rebuilt it into a true fortress, adding a fortified gatehouse and a curtain wall with machicolations.
… transformed into a Renaissance château
In the early 16th century, Pierre de Refuge’s grandson, Jean de Villebresme, added Renaissance decorative features and a covered gallery. From 1812 to 1901, the château was even used as a spinning mill. It was listed as an historical monument in 1912 and later became state property.
Heritage & nature
With its perfect fortified castle silhouette, the Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre looks like something out of a medieval tale. Set near a peaceful river, it features a charming kitchen garden inspired by medieval traditions — the ideal spot for a tranquil stroll.
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