Château de Sommesnil banner

The Timeless Château

 
  Elegant entry and stairway
 
 
 
 
 
 

This graceful marble stairway catches your eye as you enter the château. Luminous and creative details abound, including the delightful painted ceiling.  At the landing, two outstanding stained glass windows help to light your way.  The château dates back to the 18th century when it was orignally constructed as a royal hunting lodge, hence the Medici gates.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 
Stained glass crestStained glass windowsStained glass crest
The stained glass windows halfway up the stairs are not the only ones in the château.  Two other fine examples as shown here depict historical crests associated with Château de Sommesnil as does this carved crest, much like the window above left, and which is found both on the fireplace in the dining room and on the front portico of the château.

Château Crest

Tapestry of men on horsebackBoar's HeadTapestry depicting boar hunt
As you proceed up the stairs you will see two remarkable tapestries depicting hunting scenes ~ men on horseback with their dogs ~ no doubt after wild boar as seen in one tapestry.  Wild boar are in most regions of rural France, and one who met his fate can be found in the château kitchen!

Back to Château Main Page   Back to Château de Sommesnil