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Historical Preservation

Live the French Dream: Restoring and Owning a Chateau in France

May 3, 2023 Castle Restoration, Chateau History, Chateau Restoration, French Chateau, Historical Preservation

Owning a chateau in France is a dream for many, but it is often associated with a hefty price tag. However, it is possible to find charming chateaux at affordable prices that offer all the benefits of a luxurious French lifestyle without breaking the bank. Here are the top five reasons to restore and own a chateau in France, with examples of chateaux that were not expensive to purchase.

Rich Cultural Heritage: Experience the History and Charm of French Chateaux

France is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and owning a chateau in France is an opportunity to be part of that history. While many chateaux are associated with grandeur and extravagance, there are also many chateaux that offer a more modest but still charming lifestyle.

For example, Chateau de la Motte Husson, which was purchased by Dick and Angel Strawbridge for a bargain price, has been restored into a stunning family home and popular TV series. It is proof that restoring and owning a chateau in France doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Another example is Chateau de la Resle, a 19th-century chateau in Burgundy, which was purchased for a reasonable sum and has been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel. The owners, Johan Bouman and Pieter Franssens, fell in love with the chateau’s charm and history and decided to restore it to its former glory. Today, it is a popular destination for those seeking a unique and elegant French experience.

Creative Outlet: Restore and Renovate a Piece of French History

Restoring and renovating a chateau in France can be a creative outlet for those who enjoy a challenge. It is an opportunity to bring new life to a historic property and create a home that reflects your own personal style. Chateau de Gudanes, a 17th-century chateau in the Pyrenees, was purchased for a relatively low price and has been undergoing a stunning restoration by its new owners. It is proof that restoring a chateau in France can be a labor of love that yields incredible results.

Another example is Chateau de Jalesnes, located in the Loire Valley, which was purchased for a modest sum and has been transformed into a successful bed and breakfast. The owners, Catherine and Guy de Castelnau, fell in love with the chateau’s history and decided to share it with others. Today, Chateau de Jalesnes is a popular destination for those seeking a unique and authentic French experience.

Smart Financial Investment: Potential for Profit in the French Property Market

Investing in property in France can be a smart financial move, and owning a chateau is no exception. While many chateaux come with high price tags, there are also many that can be purchased for a reasonable price and have the potential to generate income. For example, Chateau de Jalesnes, which we mentioned earlier, has not only been restored into a beautiful home but has also been transformed into a successful bed and breakfast. It is an example of how owning a chateau in France can be both a smart financial investment and a profitable business venture.

Another example is Chateau de Lalande, located in the Loire Valley, which was purchased for a modest sum and has been transformed into a successful wedding venue. The owners, Dawn and Andrew, saw the potential of the chateau as a beautiful and unique wedding venue and decided to turn their dream into a reality. Today, Chateau de Lalande is a popular destination for those seeking a fairytale wedding in the French countryside.

Luxurious Lifestyle: Live Like Royalty in a French Chateau

Owning a chateau in France is an opportunity to live like royalty and experience the luxurious lifestyle that comes with it. While some chateaux come with high price tags, there are also many affordable options that offer all the comforts of a grand estate. For example, Chateau de la Verrerie, located in the Burgundy region, was purchased for a reasonable sum and has been transformed into a luxurious bed and breakfast. The chateau’s grandeur and elegance make it a popular destination for those seeking a high-end French experience.

Another example is Chateau de Bagnols, a 13th-century chateau in the Beaujolais region, which was purchased for a modest sum and has been transformed into a luxurious hotel. The chateau’s impressive architecture and stunning views make it a popular destination for those seeking a luxurious French escape.

Escape to the French Countryside: Enjoy Peace and Tranquility in a Beautiful Setting

One of the greatest benefits of owning a chateau in France is the opportunity to escape to the French countryside and enjoy peace and tranquility in a beautiful setting. While some chateaux are located in bustling cities, there are also many affordable options that offer a peaceful retreat. For example, Chateau de Brossay, located in the Loire Valley, was purchased for a modest sum and has been transformed into a tranquil bed and breakfast. The chateau’s beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere make it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Another example is Chateau de la Villaine, located in the Burgundy region, which was purchased for a reasonable sum and has been transformed into a peaceful retreat center. The chateau’s secluded location and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet and restorative experience.

Owning a chateau in France is a dream for many people, and it is easy to see why. The combination of rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and luxurious lifestyle make owning a chateau in France a unique and rewarding experience. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat, a creative outlet, a smart financial investment, or simply a chance to live in a historic and beautiful property, owning a chateau in France provides a unique and rewarding opportunity.

From the rolling hills of the Loire Valley to the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence, France is a country of natural beauty, rich culture, and luxurious living. And owning a chateau in France provides the perfect opportunity to experience all that this amazing country has to offer.

So why not take the plunge and start your chateau adventure today? With its rich history, natural beauty, and luxurious lifestyle, owning a chateau in France is an experience that you will never forget.

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Historical Preservation in Castle Renovation: Balancing Modernity and Heritage

February 11, 2023 Castle History, Castle Restoration, Chateau History, Chateau Restoration, English Castles, French Castles, French Chateau, Historical Preservation

Castles have long been symbols of strength, power, and prestige. Over the centuries, these majestic structures have withstood wars, fires, and natural disasters to become timeless landmarks of our cultural heritage. With their intricate designs, grand halls, and spacious courtyards, castles evoke a sense of wonder and awe. Today, many of these historic buildings are undergoing renovations to preserve their grandeur for future generations. One of the most important aspects of castle renovation is historical preservation, which requires a delicate balance between modernizing the castle and maintaining its historical significance.

Importance of Historical Preservation: Historical preservation is important because it ensures that our cultural heritage is protected and passed down from generation to generation. Castles are not just buildings; they are monuments that reflect the values, beliefs, and cultural identity of a nation. They serve as symbols of the country’s heritage and as tangible links to its past. Furthermore, preserving castles has economic benefits, as they often attract tourists and generate income.

Examples of Historical Preservation in Castle Renovation: Many castles around the world have undergone successful renovations while preserving their historical significance. Here are a few examples:

Château de Chambord, France: This castle, located in the Loire Valley, was built in the 16th century for King Francis I. It underwent renovation in the 19th century to modernize its interiors, but the renovation was done in such a way that the historical significance of the castle was not diminished. For example, the original stonework was preserved, and the interiors were updated with traditional furnishings and decorations.

Castello di Amorosa, California: This castle, located in Napa Valley, was built in the early 21st century as a replica of a medieval castle. The castle’s design was based on historical research and is a testament to the importance of preserving historical architecture. During the construction, great care was taken to ensure that the castle was built using traditional materials and techniques, such as hand-forged ironwork, hand-carved stone details, and hand-painted frescoes.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland: This iconic castle has undergone many renovations over the centuries, but each renovation has been done in a way that preserves its historical significance. For example, during a renovation in the 19th century, the castle’s stone walls were reinforced to withstand the Scottish weather, but the original stonework was preserved. Additionally, the castle’s interiors were updated with modern conveniences, such as electricity and plumbing, but traditional furnishings and decorations were used to preserve the castle’s historical atmosphere.

Understanding the Historical Significance of the Castle: The first step in preserving the historical significance of a castle is to understand its history and cultural importance. This involves researching the castle’s history, its architectural style, and its cultural significance. It is essential to have a deep understanding of the castle’s history because this knowledge will guide the renovation process and ensure that the castle’s historical significance is not diminished.

Identifying the Key Features to be Preserved: Once the historical significance of the castle is understood, the next step is to identify the key features that must be preserved. This may include original stonework, frescoes, and murals, as well as historical artifacts and furnishings. The preservation of these elements is critical to ensuring that the castle’s historical atmosphere is not lost during the renovation process.

Planning the Renovation to Balance Modernity and History: Once the key features to be preserved have been identified, the next step is to plan the renovation to balance modernity and history. This requires a thoughtful approach that takes into account both the historical significance of the castle and the modern conveniences that people expect in a contemporary living space. For example, it may be necessary to install modern electrical and plumbing systems while preserving the original stonework and traditional furnishings. A professional architect or historian can provide guidance on how to balance modernity and history in the renovation process.

Hiring the Right Experts to Ensure Historical Preservation: Finally, it is important to hire the right experts to ensure that the historical significance of the castle is preserved during the renovation process. This may include architects, historians, engineers, and craftsmen who have experience working on historic structures. These experts can provide guidance on the appropriate materials and techniques to use in the renovation, as well as oversee the construction process to ensure that the historical significance of the castle is not diminished.

Key Tips for Historical Preservation in Castle Renovation

Researching the Castle’s History and Cultural Significance: Before starting any renovation work on a castle, it is important to research its history and cultural significance. This will help you understand the historical context of the castle and identify any cultural or historical features that must be preserved. Researching the castle’s history may involve looking at historical records, architectural drawings, and photographs. It may also be necessary to consult with local historians and cultural experts to gain a deeper understanding of the castle’s history and cultural significance. This research will help you to identify the key features of the castle that must be preserved and provide a foundation for making informed decisions during the renovation process.

Identifying Key Features to Preserve: Once you have a thorough understanding of the castle’s history and cultural significance, the next step is to identify the key features that must be preserved. This may include architectural elements such as towers, walls, and arches, as well as cultural elements such as frescoes, stained glass windows, and traditional furnishings. In some cases, it may be necessary to make copies of these key features and store them safely while the renovation work is being done, in order to ensure that the castle’s historical atmosphere is not lost during the renovation process.

Planning the Renovation to Balance Modernity and History: The goal of castle renovation is to balance modernity and history in a way that respects the castle’s cultural significance while making it a comfortable living space for modern-day residents. This requires a thoughtful approach that takes into account both the historical significance of the castle and the modern conveniences that people expect in a contemporary living space. For example, it may be necessary to install modern electrical and plumbing systems while preserving the original stonework and traditional furnishings. A professional architect or historian can provide guidance on how to balance modernity and history in the renovation process and can help you make informed decisions about the type and extent of renovations that will be necessary.

Hiring the Right Experts to Ensure Historical Preservation: Hiring the right experts is crucial for ensuring that the historical significance of the castle is preserved during the renovation process. This may include architects, historians, engineers, and craftsmen who have experience working on historic structures. These experts can provide guidance on the appropriate materials and techniques to use in the renovation, as well as oversee the construction process to ensure that the historical significance of the castle is not diminished. They can also advise on how to address any structural or engineering challenges that may arise during the renovation process.

Use traditional materials and techniques, such as hand-forged ironwork, hand-carved stone details, and hand-painted frescoes, to preserve the castle’s historical atmosphere.

Castle renovation is a delicate balance between modernizing the castle and preserving its historical significance. By following the key tips and examples discussed in this essay, it is possible to preserve the historical significance of a castle while also making it a comfortable living space for modern-day residents. Castles are an important part of our cultural heritage, and by preserving them, we ensure that their beauty and significance will be passed down to future generations.

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Discover the Fascinating World of Castles and Chateaus and Why You Should Support Their Preservation with Saving Castles

January 1, 2023 Castle History, Castle Restoration, Chateau History, Chateau Restoration, Donate, English Castles, French Castles, French Chateau, German Castles, Historical Preservation, Irish Castles, Medieval History, Saving Castles Patreon Channel, Saving Castles Podcast, Travel Tips

Saving Castles is a charity organization dedicated to the restoration and preservation of castles and chateaus, as well as other historic properties around the world. Our organization has worked on projects in several countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany.

The importance of restoring and preserving castles and chateaus cannot be overstated. These historic properties are not only a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the past, but they also hold great educational value. By visiting these properties and learning about their history, people can gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the world around them.

Additionally, castles and chateaus are often important tourist attractions, bringing economic benefits to the local communities in which they are located. When these properties are well-preserved, they can attract visitors from all over the world, boosting the local economy through tourism.

However, the restoration and preservation of these properties can be a costly and time-consuming process. Many of these properties have been abandoned or neglected for years, and it takes a significant amount of money and resources to bring them back to their former glory. That’s where Saving Castles comes in.

Saving Castles raises funds for the restoration and preservation of these properties through a variety of channels, including individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and grant funding. The organization also relies on the hard work and dedication of volunteers, who contribute their time and skills to the restoration efforts.

In addition to restoring and preserving these properties, Saving Castles also works to educate the public about the importance of these historic sites. The organization hosts educational events and tours, allowing people to learn about the history and cultural significance of these properties.

So why is it important to contribute to the restoration and preservation of castles and chateaus and other historic properties around the world? For one, these properties are a valuable part of our shared cultural heritage, and it’s important to preserve them for future generations. Additionally, the restoration and preservation of these properties can have economic benefits for the local communities in which they are located. And finally, by restoring and preserving these properties, we can gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the world around us.

If you’re interested in supporting the efforts of Saving Castles, there are several ways you can get involved. You can make a donation to the organization, either one-time or as a recurring gift. You can also become a volunteer, either by donating your time and skills to a specific restoration project or by helping with fundraising and outreach efforts.

No matter how you choose to get involved, your support will make a difference in the efforts to restore and preserve these important historic properties. By supporting Saving Castles, you can help to ensure that these properties will be around for generations to come, and that the public will have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the history and culture of the past.

But it’s not just about the past – preserving these properties can also have benefits for the present and future. Many castles and chateaus have been repurposed as event spaces, allowing people to host weddings, parties, and other events in a beautiful and historic setting. This not only generates income for the local community, but also helps to keep these properties relevant and alive in the modern world.

In addition to the economic benefits, preserving these properties can also have environmental benefits. Many of these properties have been around for hundreds of years, and have been built using materials and techniques that are more sustainable and eco-friendly than those used in modern construction. By restoring and preserving these properties, we can learn from the past and incorporate more sustainable practices into our own building and design efforts.

In conclusion, the work of Saving Castles is vitally important for the preservation of our cultural and architectural heritage, as well as for the economic and environmental benefits it brings. If you’re interested in supporting the restoration and preservation of castles and chateaus and other historic properties around the world, consider donating to or volunteering with Saving Castles. Your support can make a significant impact in the efforts to preserve these important properties for future generations.

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St Ulrich Castle in Alsace

Discover the Beautiful Medieval Castles of Alsace

August 4, 2021 French Castles, French Chateau, German Castles, Historical Preservation, Medieval History

The Alsatian chateaux are an architectural and cultural marvel that can be accessed by a 450 km hiking trail. All you need is your energy, some water, and all the time in the world!

Discover Alsace, France where wine flows like water and half-timbered houses line the streets. This region located on a hilly territory between two rivers is home to many castles that offer incredible views of an architectural heritage dating back 800 years ago. From north to south, discover why so many people have called this place home for centuries with 2000+ miles (3200 kilometers) worth of hiking trail just waiting in wait for you!

The Land of wines, half-timbered houses, storks and delicious food that are Alsace has one of the most generous European regions in terms of medieval fortified castles. The architecture heritage is a fantastic mix from 80 buildings to be explored on foot with an exceptional architectural heritage waiting for you.

The Association Châteaux forts d’Alsace and the Club Vosgien are proud to present their topo-guide Chemin des châteaux forts d’Alsace. The 450 km of this walking circuit allow you to discover France’s most beautiful castles, such as Bouillon (the birthplace of King Henri IV), Haut Koenigsbourg Castle or Neufmaisons Castle near Strasbourg.

The new book Walks around Castles in Alsance is also available at Visitor Centers throughout the Circuit Touristique du Patrimoine et de l’Environnement Duchéen: it enables visitors who prefer a half day walk with more leisurely pace from one castle to another.

To find out all the latest news about Alsace castles, go to www.alsaceterredechateaux.com

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How to buy a French Chateau

From Fortresses to Palaces: The Varied Architecture of French Castles

June 27, 2021 Castle History, Castle Restoration, Chateau History, Chateau Restoration, English Castles, French Castles, French Chateau, Historical Preservation, Medieval History

France is a country known for its rich history, culture, and architecture, and one of the most captivating aspects of its heritage is its castles. Castles in France come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, from grandiose palaces to humble fortresses. Each castle is unique in its own way, and what sets them apart is the story behind them.

Castles in France have a fascinating history that spans centuries, and each castle has its own tale to tell. Some castles were built for the noble families to protect themselves during wars, while others were built for royalty as luxurious palaces. Some castles were later turned into prisons or hospitals, and others were abandoned for years, only to be rediscovered and restored centuries later. Each castle has its own unique story that adds to its charm and allure.

One of the most famous castles in France is the Palace of Versailles, which was built in the 17th century for King Louis XIV. This magnificent palace boasts stunning architecture, intricate designs, and expansive gardens that have become a symbol of the French royal family’s power and grandeur. The Palace of Versailles is not only a testament to French architecture and art, but it is also a reflection of the country’s rich history.

Another popular castle in France is the Château de Chambord, which is located in the Loire Valley. This castle was built during the 16th century for King Francis I and features a unique blend of French Renaissance and Gothic architecture. The castle’s design is said to have been influenced by Leonardo da Vinci, who worked for King Francis I during the time the castle was being built.

The Château de Chenonceau is another castle in the Loire Valley that is known for its rich history and unique architecture. The castle was built in the 16th century and has served as a royal residence, a hospital, and even a military headquarters during World War I. What makes this castle unique is its location, which spans across the River Cher, making it one of the few castles in the world built over a river.

Aside from these grandiose castles, there are also smaller, more modest ones that have a unique story to tell. For instance, the Château de Hautefort, which is located in the Périgord region of France, was originally built as a fortress during the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, it was transformed into a luxurious chateau with beautifully manicured gardens, which can be visited by tourists today.

French castles are a testament to the country’s rich history and architectural heritage. Each castle has a unique story to tell, whether it be about wars, royalty, art, or culture. Visiting a French castle is an experience that should not be missed, as it provides a glimpse into the country’s past and allows us to appreciate the beauty and splendor of its architecture. Whether you dream of owning a French castle or simply admire them from afar, there is no denying that these majestic structures hold a special place in the hearts of many.

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Learn about a French Chateau restoration

Inspiring Creativity: The Story of a French Art Dealer’s Castle Restoration Project

June 25, 2021 Castle History, Castle Restoration, Chateau History, Chateau Restoration, English Castles, France Real Estate, French Castles, French Chateau, Historical Preservation

When he was young, Pierre-Alain Challier developed a fondness for a castle nearby his village in France. As an adult, Challier became a contemporary art dealer in Paris, but he never forgot about his childhood dream of living in a castle. About a decade ago, the owner of the estate passed away and left the property to his niece, who resided in Patagonia and had no plans of returning. Challier and his partner, Bertrand de Latour, made an offer on the castle and bought it without ever having seen the inside. Since then, they have been working on restoring the property, which had been abandoned and stripped of many of its original features. Challier hopes to set up a foundation for artists to stay on the property and create large-scale works. Recently, a young couple even got married on the castle’s grounds.

Challier’s restoration of the castle is a passion project that he hopes will last for generations to come. He plans to preserve the castle’s exterior while making changes to the interior to accommodate his vision for an artist residency program. While the castle’s restoration is a long-term project, Challier is excited about the progress he has made so far.

Despite the challenges of restoring such an enormous property, Challier remains dedicated to his goal. He wants to create a space where artists can create without fear of judgement or commercial pressure. By providing a serene and supportive environment, Challier hopes to inspire artists to push the boundaries of their creativity.

The restoration of the castle is not just a personal project for Challier, but a community one as well. His family and friends have all rallied behind him to support the restoration. With their help, Challier hopes to continue to make progress and create a space that will inspire generations of artists to come.

Challier’s story is a testament to the power of childhood dreams and the importance of pursuing them. Despite the obstacles that he faced, he never gave up on his dream of living in a castle. Now, he is not just living in one, but restoring it to its former glory and creating a space where others can pursue their own creative dreams.

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Culdees Castle Estate Now Undergoing Renovations

June 24, 2021 Castle History, Castle Restoration, English Castles, Historical Preservation

A ruined castle that was left in a state of disrepair for over 50 years is undergoing renovations that will transform it into a new luxury venue, giving future guests the chance to holiday, wine and dine.  

Culdees Castle Estate, designed and built in 1810 for Charles Drummond, whose clan was rewarded for fighting with Robert the Bruce, has not been lived in since 1968, the new owners said. After gaining extensive experience in renovating properties and stumbling across the castle on a family holiday, Tracey Horton and Rob Beaton bought Culdees in the summer of 2019 and are “determined to restore the site to its former glory”.  

Ms Horton has extensive experience in property development and events management, and the pair have a long-term plan of restoring the whole castle. 

Following the purchase, the venture accessed a suite of Business Gateway’s start-up support services including advice on their business plan, marketing, and funding.

A dedicated adviser also provided guidance through regular virtual meetings and was able to signpost the couple to a business loan, helping them secure enough funding to turn their vision of turning the castle into a fully functioning venue into a reality.

After receiving Business Gateway’s support, the first phase of renovations is “making significant progress, and the estate now boasts a luxury glamping site with three cosy cabins, each named after previous custodians of the castle”.

Visitors to the site can enjoy hot tubs, fire pits and BBQs with direct views of the backlit castle. The couple hope to continue renovating the main body of the castle next year, and future plans include revamping the commercial kitchen and chapel, as well as designing a cosy whisky bothy. Ms Horton also hopes to develop a luxury champagne bar where guests can enjoy afternoon teas.

Ms Horton, managing director, Culdees Castle Estate, said: “We knew renovating Culdees Castle would be a big project, but we really appreciated the beauty of the building and were determined to transform it into something special. Perthshire has a great reputation for tourism, so we really needed to make Culdees stand out from the crowd.

“I have no doubt that the castle will give people something to look forward to as restrictions ease further, and I’m confident the venue will make a beautiful backdrop for the weddings that have been booked for later this year. We will continue to support Tracey and Rob as they continue their renovations and I look forward to seeing what they do next.” 

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This Chateau Has 10,000 Owners

June 22, 2021 Castle History, Castle Restoration, Chateau History, Chateau Restoration, French Castles, Historical Preservation
La Mothe-Chandeniers is a romantic French château straight out of a storybook. Dating back to the 13th century, it now lies abandoned — and its turrets and towers have begun to crumble. But the chateau has seen an unexpected change of fortune — more than 10,000 people around the world have clubbed together to save the castle from decline.
 
And the number’s continuing to grow. Each modern-day “knight in shining armor” has donated at least 50 euros ($58) toward salvaging the château. And in return, each of those donors have been crowned co-owner of the castle. They won’t all be living there, but they will get a say in the castle’s regeneration — and be the first through the doors following its new lease of life.
 
The castle is located in the French town of Les Trois-Moutiers in the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. Surrounded by a moat, it cuts a striking figure in the grassy landscape. First built by the powerful Baucay family, during the middle ages it survived being captured twice by English armies — and was plundered and pillaged during the French Revolution. Powerful Parisian businessman Francois Hennecart sought to restore the building in the early 1800s.
 
In the late 19th century, ownership fell to Baron Lejeune Edgar, a party-lover who hosted soirees in the castle. But la Mothe-Chandeniers met a dramatic end in 1932, when fire wiped out its interior — destroying a library full of priceless tomes, important tapestries and paintings.
 
In 1981, teacher Marc Deyemer purchased the crumbling château — hoping to transform it to its former glory. However the expense and the extent of the project proved too complicated. But in a happy twist of fate, the castle has been given a new lease of life.
 
A crowdfunding campaign was set up at the end of October 2017 with the goal of raising money to preserve the historic building. As well as pledging money, supporters become an official adopter of the Château. “We launched the project as a new concept,” adds Delaume. Over 8000 people got involved, with the campaign — and close to 750,000 euros ($880,000) has been raised so far.
 
The next step is to finally get the key of the castle and then organize the entry of thousands of co-owners.
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