Historic Bed and Breakfast of the Marquises, Gizeux Castle

The setting of power and elegance, at the Château de Gizeux

At the top of the Renaissance wing of Gizeux Castle , the Marquis's Chamber embodies the splendor and authority of the lords who shaped the history of this jewel of the Touraine region. Reserved for distinguished guests or descendants of the family, this exceptional room is a veritable living museum, where every detail recounts the grandeur of a noble lineage. Its very name evokes the Marquises of Gizeux , titles held by the owners from the 17th century onwards, and its furnishings reflect their rank and refinement.

Majestic architecture, a symbol of prestige

Upon entering, visitors are immediately struck by the spaciousness and high ceilings of the Marquis's Chamber. Unlike the other rooms in the castle, this one is distinguished by its barrel vault , adorned with discreet frescoes depicting allegories of the virtues (Justice, Temperance, Fortitude) and family coats of arms. The solid oak paneling is carved with more intricate motifs than in the other rooms: garlands of fruit, lion heads, and even mythological scenes inspired by antiquity. The mullioned windows , larger and more numerous here, are topped with brightly colored stained glass, depicting hunting scenes or heraldic symbols. The light emanating from them, filtered through these panes, gives the room an atmosphere that is both solemn and welcoming. The monumental fireplace , made of tufa stone and marble, is the focal point of the chamber. His coat, decorated with bas-reliefs depicting battles or court scenes, is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. Above it, an antique mirror, framed in gilding, reflects the light and enlarges the space, a trick already used at the time to impress visitors.

Furniture fit for a king

The furnishings of the Marquis's Chamber are a blend of period pieces and faithful restorations, all chosen for their historical value and symbolism. The four-poster bed , crafted from carved walnut, is draped in crimson and gold velvet, colors traditionally associated with power. Its twisted, gilded columns support a canopy embroidered with the family coat of arms. This bed, it is said, once hosted illustrious figures, such as traveling kings of France or foreign ambassadors. An 18th-century roll-top desk , made of mahogany with brass inlays, stands by the window. It is believed to have been used by the marquises to manage their affairs or draft diplomatic letters. High-backed armchairs , upholstered in brocade, are arranged around a low marble table, where one can easily imagine family councils or secret negotiations taking place. The room also houses a monumental wardrobe , made of oak and wrought iron, which was used to store archives and valuables. Inside, a collection of antique books , some dating back to the 16th century, is carefully preserved. Among them are works of philosophy, history, and poetry collections, testifying to the refined culture of the marquises.

Hidden treasures and legends

The Marquis's Chamber is brimming with unusual details that captivate the eye. A hidden door , concealed behind a Flemish tapestry, once led to a secret staircase connecting directly to the kitchens or the cellars. This discreet exit allowed the lords to move about incognito or escape in case of danger. Legend has it that during the French Revolution, the Marquis of the time used this passage to flee the revolutionaries, thus saving precious family heirlooms. The tapestries adorning the walls are among the most remarkable in the castle. One of them, entitled The Stag Hunt , is a major 16th-century work, woven in the workshops of Brussels. Its colors, despite the centuries, remain surprisingly vibrant. Another, smaller one, depicts an allegorical scene: The Triumph of Love , a theme dear to the Renaissance. Finally, a full-length portrait of Marquis Henri de Gizeux, painted in the 17th century, dominates the fireplace. His gaze seems to follow the visitors, as if to remind them that they are walking on the soil of a family that has marked the history of the region.

A unique experience, blending history and modernity

Although the Marquis's Room is primarily a place of remembrance, it can occasionally be opened to guests of the château for exceptional stays . Sleeping here is like spending a night immersed in history , lulled by the echoes of centuries past. Guests are then treated to special amenities: a candlelit dinner in the grand hall , a private tour of the family archives, or even a carriage ride through the park. For those passionate about history, art, or simply beauty, the Marquis's Room is much more than a room: it's a journey through time , an immersion into the world of the great lords of the Renaissance and the Enlightenment. An experience where luxury, culture, and mystery intertwine to create unforgettable memories.

Equipment & Services

Bedding:

- Four-poster bed (160 x 200 cm) that can be converted into two single beds (80 x 200 cm) upon request - Bathroom with shower, double vanity, and separate toilet

30 m² f - i - p