Beynes Castle

The castle of Beynes has its origins in the 11th century. First a simple earthen building surrounded by a palisade, it was endowed in the 12th century with a stone enclosure and several towers, thus giving it an important military character. In addition, the castle is located along the Mauldre, a strategic defensive axis notably during the Hundred Years War.

In the 15th century, Robert d'Estouteville, chamberlain of Charles VII and owner of the premises, transformed the castle by equipping it with accommodation, while preserving its martial role since new arrangements were then made to adapt to the weapons of the time.

It was not until the 16th century that the military function disappeared in favor of a transformation into a place of residence. In 1556, the domain was ceded to Diane de Poitiers by Henri II and it was then that the famous architect Philibert de l'Orme intervened, who made this fortified castle a place suitable for walking and relaxing.

From the 18th century, the Château de Beynes was gradually abandoned and transformed into a stone quarry, leaving only vestiges which almost disappeared in the 1960s. But the estate was then bought out, its owner inscribed it on the list of Historical Monuments and thus begins a long restoration work. In 1967, the castle became property of the city.

On June 17, 2013, the castle of Beynes is classified as a Historic Monument and since September 2013 it has benefited from a rehabilitation plan.