A must-see
article | Reading time6 min
When you arrive in Gramont, the medieval Gascon château is a must! Step through the gates into the courtyard, and surprise! An exceptionally decorated Renaissance section awaits you!
From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance: enlarging the windows
After being founded by the de Montaut family in the Middle Ages, the castle changed ownership: Sybille de Montaut married Guillaume des Voisins in the 15th century.
The latter wanted to assert his power and decided to enlarge the medieval châtelet inspired by the castles of the Loire Valley, which were so innovative, aesthetic and pleasing at the time.
An entire Renaissance wing was added to the original castle. The castle changed function and became a place to live.
Whereas openings in the Middle Ages were narrow and few in number, to better defend the site, Renaissance windows were enlarged: they were known as " mullioned " and allowed natural light into the interior spaces.
This is what you can see on the Renaissance section of the castle. They punctuate the facade and, as soon as visitors arrive, offer a wealth of decorative features.
Éric Sander / Centre des monuments nationaux
The renewal of the decorative program
The windows of Château de Gramont are framed by decorative elements inspired by Antiquity.
This was a period when ancient texts, theories, principles and architecture were being rediscovered, and interest in the period was high. Here we find pediments engaged columns framing the window, and decorated capitals . Can you recognize these architectural details?
And if you look closely at the doors and windows, you'll find mysterious figures completing the decor: busts in armor, angels' heads surrounded by wings, cherubs at full length...
And if you look up, you'll even see gargoyles! More in the medieval tradition, these additions are purely decorative.
Jean-Luc Paillé / Centre des monuments nationaux
A hierarchy of spaces
Have you noticed thatno two windows are alike? They all feature different, more or less dense and accomplished decoration. If you look closely at the south facade, you'll understand the importance of the rooms behind each of the openings.
The simplest windows illuminate simple staircases, while the most ornate are those of the reception hall, the most important room in the château during the Renaissance!
A quick glance at the main entrance to the castle is all it takes to see the staging: the handsome, straight-flight staircase welcomes guests and guides them to a double door.
The decorative scheme is similar to that seen on the windows.
Éric Sander / Centre des monuments nationaux