Château de Fontaine-Henry
History of Château de Fontaine-Henry
Passed down from generation to generation, Château de Fontaine-Henry has survived 8 centuries, regularly modified to its current style. Its long and eventful history began in the 13th century, when the Tilly family, an important Anglo-Norman family, built the first castle on the foundations of an 11th-century fortress. The d’Harcourt family inherited the estate, and in 1497, after the Hundred Years’ War had ravaged part of it, Jean d’Harcourt set about rebuilding it in the Louis XII style. The huge roof that can be admired today dates back to the 16th century, probably designed by the architect Blaise Le Prestre. This century of construction transformed the château into a superb residence in the Louis XII and Renaissance styles. In the 19th century, the château reverted to Henry de Carbonnel, who transformed the gardens into an English-style park. Since around the beginning of the 20th century, the château has belonged to the Oilliamson family. The current owner, Marquis Pierre-Apollinaire d’Oilliamson, has opened his estate to the public.
Visit to Château de Fontaine-Henry
The castle
When you arrive at Château de Fontaine-Henry, the first thing you’ll notice is the elegant exterior, with its sloping roofs – “the highest in France”. Inside, the rooms contain numerous objects and furnishings from the Renaissance, from Louis XIV to Louis XVI : porcelain, silverware and authentic furniture, all bearing the mark of time. Art lovers will also appreciate the fine collection of paintings, including works by Titian and Rubens, and the collection of engravings. A veritable art museum!
The park
After visiting the château, it’s time to explore the estate and its three historic gardens. A path leads around this wooded park. Stroll around and you’ll see the 13th-century chapel and Gothic lower halls. Inside, a film summarizes the castle’s history. This religious building of Romanesque origin was once an integral part of the fortifications that no longer exist. The well-preserved lower rooms are located between the château and the chapel. It is accessed by a small staircase.
Information, rates and schedules
Château de Fontaine-Henry opening times vary according to the season. In June and the second half of September, the estate is only open on weekends and public holidays, from 2.30pm to 6.30pm. From July 1 to September 13, the estate is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 2:30pm to 6:30pm. A full tour of the château costs €8.50 for over-15s and €5.50 for children aged 7 to 15. It’s also possible to visit just the park, for €5.50 and €4. Children under 7 enter free of charge.
Numerous discounts are available for students and large families, for example. Guided tours are available at regular times every day. Don’t forget to book. It’s also possible to visit the entire castle with the chatelain! In particular, you’ll have access to the roof timbers. Groups of 8 or more, by prior arrangement. Other events take place throughout the year.
The Château de Fontaine-Henry is 36km from the 4-star L’Escapade campsite in Calvados, north of Caen. From the campsite, drive towards Bayeux until you reach the N13 and then the D35 eastwards. Just before Creully, take the D35, then the D22, still heading east, which will take you to the château. A visit to Château de Fontaine-Henry can be combined with a visit to one of the D-Day beaches, such as Juno Beach, for a day of discovery in Normandy.
