Château La Grand'Cour - Mornay Berry

The castle was built in the late thirteenth century by Pierre de Mornay, bishop of Auxerre then chancellor of Philip the Fair. Presumably it played an important role during the Hundred Years War, due to its position within a line of fortified houses separating the royal possessions of Burgundy and Anglo-Aquitaine territories.

A circular platform 40 meters in diameter, low and surrounded by a moat of about ten meters wide, provides a basis for a well-preserved wall, original form: a polygon with 17 sides, close the circle, without turns. This is a perfect example of "shell fortress" with its gatehouse which was closed by a weighbridge and defended by a stunner. This small castle, one of the oldest Cher, is a remarkable illustration of the French military art of the Middle Ages.

The enclosed garden with old roses, peonies, tulips, around its pond, trees, hedges its bower and alcoves greenery offers a romantic setting to relax and daydream.

The good state of preservation is due to the ultimately peaceful history of the site. Originally, the center of the chamber, was the stately home, but the fire destroyed the sixteenth century. The lord of the time, the family of Charenton, then decided to go elsewhere, confident the field of Grand'Cour a manager who used, so that sauvegarda the gatehouse.

Therefore, there was no representative of any power and Grand'Cour was no longer quarrels issue. Thus the buildings safely crossed the troubled times of the religious wars and revolution: the Grand'Cour stayed out of the conflict ... and was spared.

In the eighteenth century, a "thuillier" settled and built the current farmhouse, by expanding at As its needs: his family remained in place for 150 years, until 1901. In his job, it likely contributed to safeguarding the site, since, specializing in roofing, he managed to keep the cover and therefore preserve the buildings. A farmer succeeded him until the 60s, and the buildings were actually abandoned for fifteen years.

It was in the 80s that the site was "rediscovered" and that restoration work was undertaken on the moat and wall, to give it the appearance of the old fortress. Since then, its historical and heritage value was recognized and Grand'Cour was included in the Inventory of Historical Monuments in 2009. Gradually, conservation work is conducted again to save this witness of the Middle Ages: the next steps involve the turret, the enrayure the second floor and porch. Meanwhile, the farmhouse has been renovated to allow the reception of visitors in guest rooms.

The strategic location initially on the defensive, is today to radiate in the country Loire Val d'Aube, country of art and history, and discover the abbey Fontmorigny and Menetou-Couture keep everything near the castles of Sagonne and Ainay-le-Vieil, the village and gardens Apremont those of the abbey of Orsan, the Drulon park, the Bec d'Allier, ... without forgetting of course the capital what Bourges historic cathedral and medieval streets.

The entire site is included in the Inventory of Historical Monuments since June 2009 and thus enriches the heritage of the country Loire Val d'Aube.

To allow you to enjoy the serenity of the place, two cottages were built, both with mezzanine, one can accommodate 5 people, the other 3. You will have the dining room, kitchen all equipped and lounge reserved for you to be comfortable with your family or friends.

In fine weather, the terrace will welcome face wood and meadow for horses. In winter, a fireplace in the large living room fireplace warm you after a walk in the country Loire Val d'Aube, a visit in the Sancerre or a nearby golf course.

Several activities and entertainment are offered nearby: canoeing and picnic on the Loire, horse riding, workshops discovery of fauna and flora, shows (music, theater, dance), remarkable site visits, ...

For more information, contact us on [email protected] or call 0248802445.