Château de Dampierre, Dampierre-en-Yvelines, France

The Château de Dampierre was built by Jules Hardouin-Mansart in 1675–1683 for the duc de Chevreuse in French Baroque style. Protected behind fine wrought iron double gates, the main block and its outbuildings, linked by balustrades, are ranged symmetrically around a dry paved and gravelled cour d'honneur (three-sided courtyard). Behind, the central axis is extended between the former parterres, now mown hay. The park with formally shaped water was laid out by André Le Nôtre. There are sumptuous interiors.

The grande galerie was reconstructed for the amateur archaeologist and collector, Honoré Théodore Paul Joseph d'Albert, duc de Luynes, under the direction of antiquarian architect Félix Duban. Sculptor Pierre-Charles Simart contributed Hellenic friezes and reliefs for the project. Ingres' Age of Gold remains as testament to the abortive project of decorating it in fresco, not Ingres' habitual medium.

The park, which lost many trees in the storm of 26 December 1999, offers a formal canal and an eighteenth-century garden folly.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

steve howie (2 years ago)
Lovely park. I'm only giving four stars because the château is currently closed for restoration and eight Euros seems slightly steep for admission to the park only. Helpful and friendly staff.

Foteini Paschalidou (3 years ago)
Amazing place to visit and the forest in the suroundings! Cute cafes and restaurants, and in general nice place for a visit!

Prachi Dharani (4 years ago)
Amazing to have a small picnic with your loved ones. Amazing weather and view if you go during May, June, July, August. Of course.

Nafisa Colombowala (5 years ago)
Beautiful Chateau...the palace of Versailles is inspired by this palace

Liliana Suchodolska (5 years ago)
A bit pricy entry but worh it. Calm, empty, beautiful parcs with multiple canals, boats, and charming alleys, funny horses with long ears, tea place with super nice staff. 1 day escape from crowded and hot Paris was a success!

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