Chamarande Departmental Estate

Built in 1654 by the architect Nicolas de l'Espine for Pierre Mérault, secretary and advisor to the King, the Château de Chamarande is a perfect example of Louis XIII style architecture, which prioritizes the color of the materials over sculpted ornamentation.

In 1682, the estate was purchased by the d'Ornaison Talaru family (first valet de chambre under Louis XIV), who retained it until 1850. From 1737 onwards, the park (98 hectares, now with a romantic appearance) was enlarged by the architect Contant d'Ivry. A water feature, an orangery, and a very original game of goose can still be seen. The addition of a pond in the 1780s may be the work of the landscape painter Hubert Robert. Purchased in 1978 by the Essonne General Council, the site has been listed as a historical monument and protected site since 1981.

From 1994 to 1999, a new period of work followed a brief period of neglect. Landscape architect Jacques Sgard strove to highlight the legacy of each era.
The vast poplar groves were cleared, vistas were restored, and the areas surrounding several buildings were landscaped for practical (Orangery) or decorative (Belvedere Pavilion) purposes.
Recognizing that the park is now an open space for the public, new walking paths were laid out, particularly around the pond. The game of goose was enhanced, partially recreated according to the plan by Contant d'Ivry (1740).

Since then, the park has been a hub of activity: contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, dance performances, open-air cinema, and theater productions. The outbuildings of the castle have been the headquarters of the Essonne Departmental Archives since 1999.