The Château de Chantilly

It probably was in the Gallo-Roman period that the « Cantilius » domain was erected amongst the ponds. What would become the “Chateau de Chantilly”.

This domain was the propriety to the Le Bouteiller and then the Orgemont families (14th century and the 15th century). Pierre d’Orgemont transformed it into an imposing dark and austere fortress. At the time the Lords hunted and went to war.  The Chateau would change owner with the different conquests

The connétable Anne de Montmorency, Bayard’s student (16th century), transforms it into an elaborate residence: François 1, Henri II were his guests

In the 17th century the Grand Condé, cousin of Louis 14th increases the domain, Le Nôtre designs the gardens, Hardouin-Mansart builds and embellishes the outbuildings. The most prestigious hosts come to Chantilly such as: the duc and the duchesse d’Orléans, Mme de Sévigné, The King of Poland ; Molière came and presented his plays as well as Bossuet, La Bruyère, La Fontaine, Racine, Boileau and many others.
In 1671, Louis 14th is to be entertained. Vatel organises the famous feast at the end of which he kills himself. Later Louis Henri, Duc of Bourbon entertains Louis 15th. It is at this period that the Grand Stables are built, “Masterpiece of 18th  century civilian architecture”

During the Revolution, the Chateau is sacked and becomes a prison. In 1799, it is partially destroyed. The duc d’Aumale, last of the Condé heirs, rebuilds the Chateau in 1876, enriches it with the most beautiful artistic collections and then bequeaths it to the Institut de France in 1884.

More information:
www.chateaudechantilly.com