inquiry@savingcastles.org

french history

Château de Singes: A Haunting Elegy of Abandoned Majesty

Greetings, fellow castle and château enthusiasts, and welcome to a journey unlike any other. Imagine, if you will, a place where time stands still, where the whispers of history reverberate through the air, and where the past and present intertwine in a delicate dance. This is the captivating world of Château de Singes, a once-majestic castle that graced the enchanting landscape of Val-de-Lys in France. Today, I invite you to join me as we step into the past, exploring the intricate tapestry of history, marveling at the architectural wonders, and unveiling the poignant stories that have woven themselves into the very fabric of this abandoned château.

A Whisper of History:

Let us begin our journey in the mists of time, where the seeds of Château de Singes were first sown. In the early 14th century, the visionary Duke Henri de Beaumont laid the foundation for this architectural marvel. The château, conceived not merely as a dwelling but as a testament to the power and prestige of his dynasty, rose from the earth like a phoenix taking flight. Its architecture, a harmonious blend of medieval fortifications and Renaissance aesthetics, stands as a living testament to the evolution of artistic expression through the ages.

Gaze upon its towering turrets that touch the heavens, its intricate battlements that once guarded against intruders, and its graceful archways that beckon one to explore further. The central courtyard, adorned with a marble fountain depicting playful monkeys, offers a whimsical contrast to the imposing exterior – a reminder that even in the grandeur of castles, moments of lightheartedness and beauty can be found.

Legends Carved in Stone:

Ah, the château’s stones are not mere bricks and mortar; they are the custodians of stories, whispers of lives lived and loves lost. Let me regale you with the tale of Lady Isabelle de Valois, a luminary of the 16th century, whose presence in Château de Singes brought forth beauty, mystery, and a love that defied societal norms. Isabelle, renowned for her ethereal beauty and sharp intellect, graced the château’s halls as if she were a living masterpiece. Her radiant charm inspired poets to compose verses and painters to immortalize her likeness on canvas.

Yet, behind her beguiling smile lay a secret that would stir the very foundations of the château. A forbidden love blossomed between Isabelle and a dashing nobleman, their rendezvous hidden within the depths of the château’s rose garden. The moonlit nights they shared, surrounded by fragrant blooms, bear witness to a love that dared to challenge convention and carve its own destiny.

Echoes of Triumph and Tragedy:

As we wander through the corridors of Château de Singes, we come upon the resonating echoes of triumph and tragedy that have shaped its legacy. The year 1794 witnessed the château’s transformation into a refuge during the Battle of Lys, a pivotal moment in the annals of the French Revolution. The castle, a sanctuary for wounded soldiers and a beacon of hope for the weary, stood as a testament to the resilience of its inhabitants. The stories of makeshift hospitals and acts of courage, whispered through time, evoke a profound sense of solidarity in the face of adversity.

Yet, not all tales are graced with victory. The mid-19th century marked the château’s descent into darkness, as the Beaumont dynasty faced financial ruin. The grandeur of the past gave way to neglect, and the once-ornate chambers bore witness to the weight of sorrow. Letters penned by the last scion of the family, Mathieu de Beaumont, speak of longing and heartache, capturing the melancholic essence of a bygone era. It is said that Mathieu’s verses still linger in the air, carried by the winds that sweep through the empty halls.

A Symphony of Abandonment:

Yet, dear enthusiasts, I must share with a heavy heart the somber truth – Château de Singes now stands in a state of abandonment. The hands of time have left their indelible mark, and the château, once a stage for tales of love, courage, and sorrow, is now veiled in solitude and decay. The courtyard, once alive with footsteps and laughter, is now a garden overgrown with nature’s tender reclamation. Vines caress the graceful archways, wildflowers emerge through the cobblestones, and the windows gaze out with vacant eyes.

In the Embrace of Eternity:

As we stand before the Château de Singes, a hushed reverence fills the air, and we become witnesses to a symphony of abandonment. It is a poignant reminder that even in the silence of neglect, beauty lingers, and the echoes of history persist. The tales of Isabelle’s forbidden love, the courage of those who sought refuge within its walls, and the melancholic verses of Mathieu de Beaumont have woven themselves into the very stones, etching their presence into eternity.

So, my fellow seekers of the past, let us pay homage to the memories that grace these forgotten halls. Let us honor the stories of love and loss, of triumph and despair, that have woven this château into the tapestry of time. In our shared appreciation for the enigmatic and the historical, we breathe life into the ruins, and in our shared tears, the château’s corridors resonate with the whispers of its past inhabitants.

Read more

The Unyielding Fortresses of Time: Safeguarding Our Shared Legacy

In an era where the past intertwines with the present, preserving our collective heritage becomes a paramount duty. Within the realms of history, few monuments stand as steadfast symbols of our shared identity and cultural tapestry like medieval castles. These towering fortresses, bearing witness to the triumphs and tribulations of bygone eras, hold an intrinsic significance that transcends mere stone and mortar. Today, as we face the challenges of a rapidly changing world, it is vital that we come together as a global community to protect and conserve these invaluable testaments of our past. Through the Saving Castles online community, we shall embark on a quest to safeguard our common heritage and history.

The Power of Castles: Guardians of a Bygone Era In the annals of medieval history, castles occupy a unique and revered position. These architectural marvels served as formidable fortifications, offering protection, prestige, and power to their inhabitants. Castles were the epicenters of medieval life, functioning as both military strongholds and symbols of feudal authority. The very sight of a castle instilled a sense of awe and reverence, asserting the dominance of its lord and the might of the ruling class. From the imposing walls to the intricate details of their design, each castle tells a tale of a specific time and place, reflecting the artistry, engineering prowess, and social structures of the epoch.

Throughout the Middle Ages, castles played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. They witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the clashes of armies, and the struggles for power. The legends and folklore associated with castles are interwoven with the narratives of heroic knights, legendary battles, and chivalrous love. Today, these stories continue to captivate our imagination and inspire a sense of wonder and fascination.

The Cultural Tapestry: Preserving a Diverse Legacy Castles, with their regional variations, reflect the rich diversity of human experience throughout history. From the grand châteaux of France to the majestic castillos of Spain, and the fortified keeps of England, each castle carries within its walls a unique heritage. The architectural styles, construction techniques, and defensive features of castles differ from region to region, revealing the distinct cultural influences and historical developments of each locality.

By safeguarding these structures, we protect the narratives and traditions of countless civilizations. Castles serve as tangible links to our past, enabling future generations to connect with the rich tapestry of human existence. They offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the nobility and the common people, shedding light on social hierarchies, economic systems, and technological advancements. The preservation of castles allows us to appreciate the invaluable contributions of diverse cultures and fosters a sense of pride in our shared heritage.

The Lessons of the Past: Learning from Castle Preservation Preserving castles is not just about bricks and mortar; it is an opportunity to learn from the past and apply those lessons to our present challenges. Castle conservation requires meticulous research, scientific analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. By studying the construction techniques and architectural innovations of the past, we gain insights into the craftsmanship and engineering prowess of our ancestors.

Furthermore, the restoration and maintenance of castles demand a deep understanding of historical contexts and cultural values. The preservation process often involves extensive research, uncovering historical documents, and engaging with local communities to ensure authenticity and accuracy. Such endeavors teach us the importance of historical accuracy and the significance of respecting and preserving cultural heritage.

Similarly, in our modern world, finding sustainable solutions and addressing global issues necessitate cooperation and the integration of diverse perspectives. The Saving Castles online community provides a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, where historians, archaeologists, architects, engineers, and enthusiasts can come together to share knowledge and expertise. Through this collaborative spirit, we can forge connections, exchange ideas, and foster innovative approaches to conservation, drawing inspiration from the triumphs and failures of those who came before us.

The Threats We Face: Uniting against Destruction Despite their enduring presence, castles face an array of threats that endanger their very existence. Time, weathering, neglect, and human intervention are constant adversaries. Centuries of exposure to the elements have taken their toll on castle structures, eroding walls, weakening foundations, and causing structural instability. Neglect and lack of maintenance have also contributed to their deterioration, as many castles were abandoned or repurposed over time.

However, perhaps the greatest threat comes from deliberate human actions. In an era of urban expansion, cultural erosion, and shifting priorities, castles often find themselves at odds with modern development. The encroachment of cities, highways, and industrial complexes poses a significant risk to their survival. In some cases, castles have been destroyed to make way for progress, erasing tangible links to our past.

By uniting through the Saving Castles online community, we can raise awareness, lobby for preservation efforts, and galvanize public support to counter these threats. Through advocacy and education, we can underscore the cultural and historical value of castles and emphasize the importance of their preservation. Together, we can ensure that future generations inherit a legacy enriched by the presence of these majestic fortresses.

The Call to Arms: A Shared Responsibility Safeguarding our common heritage is a responsibility that rests upon the shoulders of every individual. The Saving Castles online community is a catalyst for this collective effort, empowering individuals from all walks of life to contribute meaningfully to the preservation of castles. Whether through financial support, volunteerism, or simply raising awareness, each member of the community plays a vital role in the battle against the erosion of our shared history.

Financial resources are essential for the conservation and restoration of castles. Governments, philanthropists, and heritage organizations must be encouraged to allocate funds and grants to support preservation initiatives. Additionally, volunteers can actively participate in restoration projects, offering their time and skills to ensure that castles are conserved for future generations.

Education and outreach are equally crucial in fostering a sense of appreciation and responsibility towards our heritage. The Saving Castles online community can serve as a platform for sharing information, engaging in discussions, and promoting educational initiatives. By organizing workshops, lectures, and virtual tours, we can cultivate an understanding of the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of castles among people of all ages.

As a medieval historian, I stand before you, wielding the quill as a sword, urging each one of us to heed the call and join the Saving Castles online community. Together, let us become the guardians of our collective past, protecting the legacy of these enduring fortresses. By embracing our shared responsibility and fostering a spirit of unity, we can ensure that these magnificent structures continue to inspire awe and enrich our understanding of the world we inhabit.

The Saving Castles online community is not just a virtual space; it is a haven for like-minded individuals dedicated to preserving our common heritage and history. Through our combined efforts, we can raise awareness, advocate for conservation, and contribute to the sustainable future of castles. Let our voices resound through the virtual halls of Saving Castles, as we stand united in our commitment to safeguarding our common heritage and history for generations yet unborn. Together, we shall build a fortress of knowledge, love, and dedication that will protect the unyielding fortresses of time.

Join our Castle & Chateau Society group on Facebook to learn more: Click Here

Read more

The Magic of Saving Castles: Escaping Negativity and Embracing Unity

In a world that seems increasingly divided and consumed by negativity, there shines a beacon of hope, a place where dreams and imagination intertwine. Welcome to the enchanting realm of the Saving Castles fan page, where joy and unity take flight on the wings of creativity. Today, more than ever, we find solace and inspiration in the content shared by this captivating community. Allow us to transport you into this fantastical realm and unveil why it has become such an important escape.

As we scroll through our news feeds, we are bombarded with headlines that reflect a world in turmoil. Stories of conflicts, divisions, and uncertainties dance before our eyes, filling our hearts with a heavy sadness. It is during these times of strife that the Saving Castles fan page becomes an oasis of respite, offering us a sanctuary from the chaos that surrounds us. Here, we are whisked away to a realm where mythical creatures roam free and noble heroes rise to protect the innocent.

The content shared by Saving Castles fans is not merely a collection of imaginative tales, but an invitation to embrace unity and hope. Each post, carefully crafted and brimming with creativity, weaves a tapestry of wonder that transcends the boundaries of reality. We find ourselves enthralled by the breathtaking castles and chateaux that rise majestically against the backdrop of a magical sunset, and the heroines and heroes who embark on daring quests to save their cherished realms. These stories remind us of the power of unity, courage, and determination in the face of adversity.

In a world where divisions threaten to tear us apart, the Saving Castles fan page serves as a reminder that our differences can be celebrated and embraced. We come together as a community of dreamers, artists, and storytellers, united by our shared love for these enchanting tales. Regardless of our backgrounds, cultures, or beliefs, we find common ground within the realms of fantasy, where dragons and princesses coexist, and knights and sorcerers fight side by side. It is within these shared experiences that we discover our inherent humanity, bridging the gaps that divide us and nurturing a sense of understanding and empathy.

Moreover, the Saving Castles fan page provides an escape not only from the negativity that permeates our world but also from the confines of our daily lives. It invites us to immerse ourselves in a realm where the impossible becomes possible, where dreams take flight, and where our own imagination is set free. In this magical refuge, we can momentarily shed the weight of our responsibilities, stepping into the shoes of valiant heroes or wise enchantresses. Through the stories shared on this fan page, we find solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of wonder that helps us navigate the challenges of our own realities with a refreshed perspective.

In a world where cynicism often casts its long shadow, the Saving Castles fan page is a luminous testament to the enduring power of optimism and creativity. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is a spark within each of us waiting to be ignited. By following this captivating content, we embark on a journey that transcends the limits of our own lives, connecting with kindred spirits and nurturing our souls.

So, my fellow dreamers, let us immerse ourselves in the wonder and magic that the Saving Castles fan page offers. Let us celebrate the unity it fosters, the inspiration it ignites, and the joy it brings to our hearts. Together, we shall reclaim our belief in the power of storytelling, rediscover the strength in unity, and embark on a collective journey where imagination knows no bounds. In this enchanting realm, we shall find our respite, our escape, and our unwavering hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Let the castles rise, and let our spirits soar!

 

Cheers!

Monte Schumacher

Co-Founder

Read more

Get Lost in the Wonders of Château de Tours – Explore the Fascinating Past of this French Treasure!”

Welcome, fellow castle and chateau enthusiasts, to the stunning Château de Tours! We are thrilled to share with you the rich history, magnificent architecture, and fascinating stories behind this enchanting castle.

The Château de Tours, also known as the Château de Plessis-lez-Tours, is a former royal residence located in the town of Plessis-lèz-Tours in the Loire Valley of France. Built in the late 15th century, the castle served as a favored residence of several French kings, including Charles VIII, Louis XII, and Francis I. The castle’s construction began in 1460 under the orders of King Louis XI, who sought a peaceful retreat away from the political turmoil of Paris. The castle was completed in 1470, featuring a rectangular layout with four towers, a moat, and a drawbridge.

After the death of Louis XI in 1483, his son Charles VIII inherited the castle and made several significant renovations, including the addition of a chapel and the famous “Salle des Gardes,” a grand hall decorated with intricate carvings and tapestries.

In the 16th century, the castle became a favored residence of Francis I, who made several more significant renovations, including the addition of a Renaissance-style wing and the iconic spiral staircase.

After the French Revolution, the castle was used as a prison and later as a military barracks. It was not until 1930 that the castle was restored to its former glory and opened to the public as a museum.

The Château de Tours is a stunning example of late Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The castle’s rectangular layout with four towers reflects the typical medieval design of a fortress, while the later additions of the chapel and Renaissance wing demonstrate the castle’s evolution into a comfortable residence.

One of the most iconic features of the Château de Tours is its spiral staircase, which was added during the renovations of Francis I. The staircase is a true masterpiece of Renaissance design, featuring a delicate spiral of stone that seems to float effortlessly upward. The staircase is decorated with ornate carvings and sculptures, including a bust of Francis I.

A notable feature of the castle is the “Salle des Gardes,” or Guard Room, which was originally used as a reception hall for important guests. The room is decorated with intricately carved woodwork and tapestries that depict scenes from French history.

The Château de Tours is steeped in fascinating stories and legends that bring its history to life. One of the most famous tales associated with the castle is the story of the “Green Lady,” a ghostly figure said to haunt the castle’s chapel.

According to legend, the Green Lady was a young noblewoman who fell in love with a soldier stationed at the castle. When the soldier was sent off to war, the noblewoman waited for his return, but he never came back. Heartbroken and despairing, the noblewoman threw herself from the chapel tower and died.

Ever since her death, visitors to the castle have reported seeing a ghostly figure dressed in green wandering the chapel and tower. Some even claim to have heard her mournful cries echoing through the halls.

A famous event associated with the Château de Tours is the “Ball of the Ardents,” a bizarre and tragic incident that occurred during the reign of Charles VI in 1393. The king and several of his nobles attended a masked ball at the castle, during which several of the dancers accidentally set their costumes on fire. The flames quickly spread, engulfing the ballroom and killing several of the guests.

The Ball of the Ardents was a shocking and tragic event that left a lasting impression on French history. The incident has been immortalized in art and literature, including the famous painting by Eugène Delacroix titled “The Death of Sardanapalus.”

Another interesting story involves the famous French author, Honoré de Balzac. Balzac stayed at the castle in 1833 as a guest of the Marquis de Plessis, who was a descendant of the castle’s original owner, Louis XI. Balzac was so inspired by the castle and its history that he used it as the setting for his novel “The Country Doctor.”

In addition to its storied history and stunning architecture, the Château de Tours is also home to a remarkable collection of art and artifacts. The museum’s collections include paintings, sculptures, furniture, and decorative arts from the Renaissance period to the present day.

Visitors can explore the castle’s rich history through a variety of exhibits and guided tours. The castle is open to the public year-round and hosts a variety of special events and exhibitions.

The Château de Tours is a true masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and a testament to the grandeur and opulence of French history. From its early days as a fortress to its later role as a royal residence, the castle has played a central role in the history and culture of France.

Through its fascinating stories and legends, its stunning architecture, and its remarkable collections of art and artifacts, the Château de Tours offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of France.

If you are a castle or chateau enthusiast, I highly recommend adding the Château de Tours to your list of must-see destinations. Whether you are interested in history, art, or architecture, this remarkable castle is sure to leave you awe-inspired and captivated.

En français:

Bienvenue, chers passionnés de châteaux, au magnifique Château de Tours ! En tant que spécialiste des châteaux, je suis ravie de partager avec vous la riche histoire, la magnifique architecture et les récits fascinants qui se cachent derrière ce château enchanteur.

Le château de Tours, également connu sous le nom de château de Plessis-lez-Tours, est une ancienne résidence royale située dans la ville de Plessis-lèz-Tours, dans la vallée de la Loire, en France. Construit à la fin du XVe siècle, le château a servi de résidence privilégiée à plusieurs rois de France, dont Charles VIII, Louis XII et François Ier.

La construction du château a commencé en 1460 sous les ordres du roi Louis XI, qui cherchait une retraite paisible loin de l’agitation politique de Paris. Le château est achevé en 1470. Il présente un plan rectangulaire avec quatre tours, des douves et un pont-levis. Après la mort de Louis XI en 1483, son fils Charles VIII hérite du château et effectue plusieurs rénovations importantes, notamment l’ajout d’une chapelle et de la célèbre “Salle des Gardes”, un grand hall décoré de sculptures et de tapisseries complexes.

Au XVIe siècle, le château devient la résidence privilégiée de François Ier, qui y effectue plusieurs autres rénovations importantes, dont l’ajout d’une aile de style Renaissance et l’emblématique escalier en colimaçon. Après la Révolution française, le château est utilisé comme prison, puis comme caserne militaire. Ce n’est qu’en 1930 que le château a été restauré et ouvert au public en tant que musée.

Le château de Tours est un exemple étonnant de l’architecture gothique tardive et de la Renaissance. Le plan rectangulaire du château avec ses quatre tours reflète la conception médiévale typique d’une forteresse, tandis que les ajouts ultérieurs de la chapelle et de l’aile Renaissance témoignent de l’évolution du château en une résidence confortable.

L’un des éléments les plus emblématiques du château de Tours est son escalier en colimaçon, qui a été ajouté lors des rénovations de François Ier. L’escalier est un véritable chef-d’œuvre de la Renaissance, avec une délicate spirale de pierre qui semble flotter sans effort vers le haut. L’escalier est décoré de sculptures ornementales, dont un buste de François Ier.

Un autre élément remarquable du château est la “Salle des Gardes”, qui servait à l’origine de salle de réception pour les invités importants. La salle est décorée de boiseries sculptées et de tapisseries représentant des scènes de l’histoire de France.

Le château de Tours est imprégné d’histoires et de légendes fascinantes qui donnent vie à son histoire. L’une des histoires les plus célèbres associées au château est celle de la “Dame verte”, une figure fantomatique qui hanterait la chapelle du château.

Selon la légende, la Dame Verte était une jeune noble qui tomba amoureuse d’un soldat en poste au château. Lorsque le soldat fut envoyé à la guerre, la noble femme attendit son retour, mais il ne revint jamais. Le cœur brisé et désespérée, elle se jeta du haut de la tour de la chapelle et mourut.

Depuis sa mort, les visiteurs du château rapportent avoir vu une silhouette fantomatique vêtue de vert errer dans la chapelle et la tour. Certains affirment même avoir entendu ses pleurs résonner dans les couloirs. Un autre événement célèbre associé au château de Tours est le “Bal des Ardents”, un incident bizarre et tragique qui s’est produit sous le règne de Charles VI en 1393. Le roi et plusieurs de ses nobles assistèrent à un bal masqué au château, au cours duquel plusieurs danseurs mirent accidentellement le feu à leurs costumes. Les flammes se propagent rapidement, engloutissant la salle de bal et tuant plusieurs invités.

Le bal des Ardents est un événement choquant et tragique qui a marqué l’histoire de France. L’incident a été immortalisé dans l’art et la littérature, notamment dans le célèbre tableau d’Eugène Delacroix intitulé “La mort de Sardanapale”.

Une autre histoire intéressante associée au château de Tours concerne le célèbre écrivain français Honoré de Balzac. Balzac a séjourné au château en 1833 en tant qu’invité du marquis de Plessis, qui était un descendant du premier propriétaire du château, Louis XI. Balzac a été tellement inspiré par le château et son histoire qu’il en a fait le cadre de son roman “Le médecin de campagne”.

Outre son histoire et son architecture étonnante, le château de Tours abrite également une remarquable collection d’œuvres d’art et d’objets d’art. Les collections du musée comprennent des peintures, des sculptures, des meubles et des arts décoratifs de la Renaissance à nos jours.

Les visiteurs du Château de Tours peuvent découvrir la riche histoire du château à travers une variété d’expositions et de visites guidées. Le château est ouvert au public tout au long de l’année et accueille une variété d’événements spéciaux et d’expositions. Le château de Tours est un véritable chef-d’œuvre de l’architecture gothique et de la Renaissance et un témoignage de la grandeur et de l’opulence de l’histoire de France. De ses débuts en tant que forteresse à son rôle ultérieur de résidence royale, le château a joué un rôle central dans l’histoire et la culture de la France.

Grâce à ses histoires et légendes fascinantes, son architecture étonnante et ses remarquables collections d’art et d’objets, le château de Tours offre aux visiteurs un aperçu unique de la richesse de l’histoire et de la culture de la France.

Si vous êtes un amateur de châteaux, je vous recommande vivement d’ajouter le Château de Tours à votre liste de destinations à ne pas manquer. Que vous soyez intéressé par l’histoire, l’art ou l’architecture, ce remarquable château ne manquera pas de vous inspirer et de vous captiver.

_______________________________________________________________________

// WANT TO SUPPORT US?

YouTube – Don’t forget to subscribe.

Instagram – Lots of great photos and reels

Twitter – Check out our OTD (On This Day) daily history tweets

// DO YOU LISTEN TO PODCASTS?

Check out our Saving Castles Podcast on Spotify and Apple – Don’t forget to follow us

Sharing our videos or recommending our channels to a friend is also very much appreciated! 

 

Read more
0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop