Château de Candé

Château de Candé is a historically significant castle located in Monts, France, with origins tracing back to the late medieval period. The castle's earliest known lord was Macé de Larçay in 1313, marking its roots as a medieval fortress. However, the structure seen today largely reflects the architectural transformations that began at the turn of the 16th century.

The renaissance transformation of château de Candé

In 1499, François Briçonnet, the mayor of Tours and state treasurer, acquired the fief of Candé and initiated the construction of a Renaissance house on the site of the old medieval fortress. This marked a significant architectural shift from the defensive medieval stronghold to a more residential and stylistically refined castle. Unfortunately, Briçonnet died before its completion, and the building was finished in 1508 by his daughter, Jeanne Briçonnet.

The Renaissance phase introduced elements typical of the period, including more elegant windows, refined stonework, and a layout designed for comfort and status rather than purely defense. The castle's structure from this time reflects the transition in castle architecture from fortress to stately home.

Later architectural developments and neo-gothic additions

For several centuries, the castle passed through various owners, none of whom made major architectural changes until the mid-19th century. In 1853, Santiago Drake del Castillo, heir to a wealthy plantation owner, purchased the castle and undertook significant expansions. He added a northern wing in the neo-gothic style, which notably tripled the castle's living space. This addition included characteristic neo-gothic features such as pointed arches, decorative battlements, and ornate stonework that contrasted with the earlier Renaissance elements.

Modernization in the early 20th century

In 1927, the castle was acquired by Charles Bedaux, a Franco-American industrial millionaire, along with his wife Fern and Jean Drake del Castillo, the grandson of Santiago. They carried out extensive modernization efforts to bring the castle up to contemporary standards. These included installing a comprehensive plumbing system, upgrading the electrical wiring, and fitting central heating throughout the building with an elaborate network of 60 tons of pipes.

The castle was outfitted with eight bedrooms, each featuring a bathroom decorated in the art déco style. Each bathroom had an advanced American system that allowed bathtubs to be filled and emptied in under a minute. Indoor toilets were also installed, a modern convenience at the time. Additionally, Bedaux installed a telephone system that connected directly to the exchange in Tours, requiring an operator to be present on-site—a unique feature for a French residence of that era.

To complement the luxurious living standards, recreational facilities were built on the grounds, including an 18-hole golf course, a tennis court, a gymnasium, and a solarium. These additions reflected the lifestyle of the wealthy owners during the early 20th century and transformed the castle into a modern country estate.

Historical significance and notable events

Château de Candé is also known for its role in 20th-century history as the venue for the 1937 marriage of the Duke of Windsor (formerly King Edward VIII) and Wallis Warfield Simpson. This event attracted international attention, as Edward VIII had abdicated the British throne to marry Simpson. The famous photographer Cecil Beaton took their wedding photographs at the castle, adding to its cultural significance.

Current status and preservation

After Fern Bedaux's death in 1972, the castle was bequeathed to the French State. In 1974, management was transferred to the council of Indre-et-Loire, which has since overseen its preservation. The castle remains a well-preserved example of a late medieval fortress transformed through Renaissance and neo-gothic architectural styles, with modern amenities from the early 20th century.

Visitors today can appreciate the castle's layered history, from its medieval origins through its Renaissance reconstruction and neo-gothic expansions, to its 20th-century modernization and historical events. The castle's combination of architectural styles and its connection to notable historical figures make it a unique heritage site in the Loire Valley region.