The Château de Bailleul: A Renaissance Treasure in Normandy

Located in the heart of the picturesque Normandy region, the Château de Bailleul is a true architectural marvel. Nestled in the charming commune of Angerville-Bailleul, Seine-Maritime, France, this Italian Renaissance-style castle is a fascinating testament to the region's glorious past.

Built in 1543 by Bertrand de Bailleul, the Château de Bailleul was originally a pleasure residence where he could retire and enjoy its enchanting setting. Bertrand de Bailleul, heir to the land of Angerville, decided to add his name, thus giving birth to the commune of Angerville-Bailleul.

The castle itself is a magnificent stone structure, resting on a wide talute base. Its main body has a square plan, framed by four imposing quandrangular pavilions. The roofs of the pavilions are crowned with four statues representing the cardinal virtues: justice, strength, prudence and temperance. These sculptures add a remarkable artistic and symbolic touch to the entire castle.

The side facades of the castle are discreet and uncluttered, decorated with rare and small openings. However, they do not lack elegance with their loggias allowing circulation between the pavilions. On the other hand, the other two main facades are true works of art, richly decorated with sculptures representing the coats of arms of the Marquis de Bailleul. This contrast between the sobriety of the side facades and the architectural splendor of the main facades gives the castle a unique and captivating aesthetic.

Although the interior of the castle is not open for public visits, it is reputed to contain architectural details of great rarity in France. Like the Italian Renaissance, you can find ribbed ceilings and a superb double-revolution staircase, testifying to the elegance and refinement of the time.

The Château de Bailleul estate is also of great beauty. With a perspective stretching for more than a kilometre, it offers an enchanting landscape where preserved nature and historical heritage mix. Unfortunately, the castle is a private residence and is not open to the public, thus preserving its family and intimate character.

However, the castle estate, including all the fence, buildings, soils and plantations, as well as the magnificent perspective, has been listed as a Historic Monument since July 28, 2005. This recognition underlines the historical and architectural importance of this exceptional site.