Nestled in a steep hillside, almost obscured by ancient trees, Château de Massanes is located in the sunny region of Gard near Provence, and its history dates all the way back to the Roman empire. The property was originally a Roman villa, owned by the Roman Marcus, who lived in this area some 1500 – 2000 years ago. After the fall of the Roman empire the property turned into a medieval lordship – a seigneurie – before it was given its current neo-classical facade in the early 18th century.
The current château consists of several buildings which are joined by southern and eastern neo-classical facades, but most of the building structure is medieval – some elements maybe even older? There is a watchtower, a dovecote, vaulted cellars, a number of fountains and wells, a silkworm factory and a number of medieval building features.
The current appearance was created in 1730 by the notable Elie Randon de Massane, finance officer for the king. Hence, even the more recent parts of the château predate the revolution.
The château has a high historical value with its long and noble history all the way back to the Roman days and the many centuries of change have given it a unique romantic exterior. It is a true Occitan château, unalterered by the centuries, with many original features intact.
Unfortunately, over the years this beautiful château has fallen into disrepair. For the past ten years the château has been subjected to debilitating water leaks from the roof, especially on the eastern side, which has taken a hard toll on these medieval structures.
In 2022 the château was acquired by the ideal organisation Historic Estates Ltd with the aim of preserving the estate for future generations. We had been scouting châteaux for a couple of years and just fell head over heels with this one. It’s a true fairytale castle with a history dating all the way back to early European civilisation.
Here on this website you will find restoration updates, tidbits from château life, sale of château souvenirs (all of which goes towards restoration of the château), the opportunity to become a support member as well as information about other opportunities to contribute, should you wish to do so.
