Originally, this property, known today as the Castle Rochers-Sevigne, once belonged to the Mathefelon family (since the 12th century). Then, in 1410, the property came under the ownership (through marriage) of the Seville family.
Marie de Rabutin Chantel married Henri Sevigne (descendant of the first Sevigne to own the property) in the early part of the 17th century. In 1644, shortly after their union, the newly designated Marquese de Sevigne discovered the summer resort residence and fell in love with the castle. It was here that this most famous resident penned 297 letters (most addressed to her daughter) between 1644 and 1690 during her 16 visits to the estate. By 1715, the Netamiere family had acquired the property and began extensive restorations of the castle.
Reconstructed (In the Gothic style) as an L-shaped structure, with two towers and an octagonal chapel, the castle has remained private property.
Marie de Rabutin Chantel married Henri Sevigne (descendant of the first Sevigne to own the property) in the early part of the 17th century. In 1644, shortly after their union, the newly designated Marquese de Sevigne discovered the summer resort residence and fell in love with the castle. It was here that this most famous resident penned 297 letters (most addressed to her daughter) between 1644 and 1690 during her 16 visits to the estate. By 1715, the Netamiere family had acquired the property and began extensive restorations of the castle.
Reconstructed (In the Gothic style) as an L-shaped structure, with two towers and an octagonal chapel, the castle has remained private property.
While still remaining under private ownership, this 900;year old castle is one of Vitre’s top attractions.
Its whole facade, including this main entrance area, creates a storybook-like image.
Turn-of-the-century archival image of the Castle Rochers-Sevigne.
Portrait of the Marquese Marie de Sevigne, the castle’s most famous resident because of the many letters she published while vacationing at this summer resort.
This stand-alone octagonal chapel was built by Marie de Sevigne in 1671 and dedicated to her uncle, the Abbe de Coulanges.
While the whole complex remains private property, a few rooms have been opened to the public as a museum...
...in order to provide a glimpse into upper-class life during the Middle Ages.
Ahhh... the lap of luxury for the weary.
What a beautiful chair. I would be afraid to sit on it!
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