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Château de Mursay: A Ruined Gem of History

Discover the Château de Mursay in Échiré, where French history, literature, and serene landscapes converge. A tranquil escape into France's rich heritage.

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Explore the romantic ruins of Château de Mursay in Échiré, a historic site with ties to French royalty and literary giants. Once home to Agrippa d'Aubigné and childhood residence of Madame de Maintenon, the castle offers a peaceful escape into the past along the Sèvre Niortaise river.

A brief summary to Château de Mursay

Local tips

  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, as the Château de Mursay offers a tranquil setting for an outdoor meal amidst historical surroundings.
  • Check the schedule for guided tours (available February to October for groups) to gain deeper insights into the château's history and significance.
  • Explore the Allée du Roy, a picturesque avenue of lime trees, for a scenic walk and a connection to the château's royal past.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Niort, take the Tanlib bus line 24 towards Échiré. The bus ride takes approximately 17 minutes and costs €3. Get off at the 'Echire Centre' stop, which is located in the center of Échiré. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the Château de Mursay.

  • Driving

    From Niort, drive north on the D650 towards Échiré. The drive is approximately 9 km and takes about 11 minutes. Once in Échiré, follow signs to Rue de Mursay. Parking is available near the château at 465 Rue de Mursay. Parking is free, but spaces are limited, especially during events.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Niort, a taxi or ride-share service to Château de Mursay takes about 11 minutes and typically costs between €21 and €25. Several taxi services operate in Niort and Échiré, including Taxi Jimmy and Alieniortaxi. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Château de Mursay

Nestled in the commune of Échiré, near Niort, the Château de Mursay stands as a poignant reminder of France's rich history. This ruined 16th-century castle, now a designated monument historique, was once the home of Théodore Agrippa d'Aubigné, a celebrated poet and soldier. His granddaughter, Françoise d'Aubigné, better known as Madame de Maintenon, spent her early years here, later becoming the influential, secretly married wife of King Louis XIV. Standing on the left bank of the Sèvre Niortaise river, the Château de Mursay commands a serene presence. The original structure, built in the late 16th century, featured a main building divided by a staircase tower and framed by four imposing towers, showcasing a blend of Renaissance and early Classical architectural styles. Agrippa d'Aubigné significantly transformed the existing structure between 1596 and 1613, creating a more refined residence. Henri IV, for whom Agrippa d'Aubigné served as a squire, is said to have spent some of the happiest days of his life here in 1576. The Allée du Roy, a picturesque avenue of lime trees, stands as a testament to this royal connection. Despite its historical significance, the Château de Mursay gradually fell into disrepair. By 1920, it was no longer regularly inhabited, and over the years, the ravages of time took their toll. However, in 2002, local authorities acquired the site to preserve it. Today, the association Les Amis du Château de Mursay manages the site, dedicated to sharing its history with visitors. While the castle's interior remains largely unrestored, the exterior grounds are open year-round, offering a tranquil space for walking and contemplation.

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