Château de Troussay: A Loire Valley Gem

Château de Troussay, often described as the smallest of the Loire Valley châteaux, presents a captivating blend of history, architecture, and regional charm. Located in the commune of Cheverny, in the Loir-et-Cher department, this petite castle offers an intimate and authentic experience, far from the grand scale of its more famous neighbors. Its unique character stems from its evolution over centuries, shaped by various owners and, most notably, by the historian Louis de la Saussaye in the 19th century. The origins of Troussay can be traced back to around 1450, with the first recorded owner being Robert de Bugy. However, the oldest existing parts of the structure date from the Renaissance. In the 17th century, the building was enlarged, gaining a central body and two wings. A formal French garden was also added at this time. The estate changed hands in 1732, when it was sold to the Pelluys family. Gabrielle Pulluys brought the château as her dowry when she married Christophe de Réméon in 1741. Their son, Claude, was a companion to Henri IV. The château's most significant transformation occurred in the 19th century under the ownership of Louis de la Saussaye. A historian and archaeologist with a passion for preserving the heritage of the Loire Valley, he inherited Troussay in 1828. De la Saussaye, a friend of Prosper Mérimée, dedicated himself to restoring and embellishing the estate, integrating architectural elements salvaged from other prestigious Loire Valley monuments that had fallen into ruin. This eclectic approach gives Troussay its distinctive character, a mosaic of styles and influences. The exterior of Château de Troussay reflects this blend of periods and styles. The principal façade, known as the "François I" façade, exhibits Renaissance influences, reminiscent of the Château de Chambord. Slate insets adorn the chimneys, and stone mullion windows add to the architectural detail. The towers, built in the 18th century, feature pinnacles, echoing Chambord's design. The other facade, called the Louis XII facade, also incorporates salvaged architectural details. Inside, the château features a series of rooms furnished with period pieces from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. These rooms offer a glimpse into the lives of the families who inhabited Troussay over the centuries. The Entrance Hall, Dining Room, Music Room (or "Salon Louis de la Saussaye"), Small Salon, Oval Salon, and Chapel are all open to visitors. Several sculptures decorate the façade. The main entrance is flanked by two capitals, one Renaissance from the Château de Bury and saved by Louis de la Saussaye; the other was made in the 19th century by the sculptor Lafargue. Over the entrance the small stone, Virgin is a replica of the 15th C. wooden Virgin at the Château de Cheverny. A small relief of a woman from the Italian Renaissance was mounted on the left wing at the time of the restoration. On the right-hand tower is a sundial, surrounded by an inscription in Latin: Ultimam time, fuit hora, carpe diem: "fear the last hour, time flees, seize the day". Beyond the château itself, the grounds offer further attractions. The English-style park, planted with rare and ancient trees, provides a serene setting for a stroll. A traditional vegetable garden, dating back to the 19th century, adds to the charm and self-sufficient feel of the estate. The garden feeds the family and their guests. The picturesque outbuildings house a small museum dedicated to the Sologne region, showcasing aspects of daily life and agriculture in the past. This museum includes a 16th-century screw press and other agricultural artifacts. Château de Troussay also has a long wine-making history. The outbuildings once housed farm workers, animals, food reserves, a winery and a bakery. Today, visitors can enjoy wine tastings of cuvées produced on the estate's vines. The estate also includes a reception hall, a gîte for 14 people, and a boutique selling regional products and vintage furniture. Visiting Château de Troussay offers a unique perspective on the Loire Valley's rich heritage. Its smaller scale and eclectic design create an intimate and engaging experience. The combination of architectural styles, period furnishings, and regional exhibits provides a comprehensive glimpse into the history and culture of the area. The beautiful grounds, including the English-style park and traditional vegetable garden, offer a tranquil escape. The opportunity to taste wines produced on the estate adds another layer to the experience, connecting visitors to the region's agricultural traditions. For those seeking an authentic and personal encounter with the Loire Valley's past, Château de Troussay is a hidden gem worth discovering.