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🇫🇷 France /Culture & Society

Night tour of Jacques Garcia's 'Norman Versailles'

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • French decorator Jacques Garcia opened the doors of his Château du Champ de Bataille for a rare nighttime tour.
  • The "Norman Versailles," located in Normandy, was designed by Louis Le Vau, the architect of the Palace of Versailles.
  • Garcia has spent 30 years renovating the 17th-century estate, which boasts 45 hectares of gardens and a significant collection of art and antiques.

Renowned French interior designer Jacques Garcia offered an exclusive nighttime tour of his magnificent Château du Champ de Bataille, a grand estate often referred to as the "Norman Versailles."

During an appearance on the program "Le Figaro La Nuit," Garcia welcomed the publication into his prestigious domain, located in Sainte-Opportune-du-Bosc in Normandy. He explained that the château, completed in 1658, is a "double château" designed by Louis Le Vau, the same architect responsible for the Palace of Versailles. The extravagant count who commissioned it was reportedly exiled to the countryside by Cardinal Mazarin for his involvement in the Fronde parliamentary revolt against royal authority.

Shall I tell you a little story about the house?

— Jacques GarciaAs he began the tour of his château.

Garcia purchased the estate in 1992 and has dedicated three decades to its meticulous renovation, restoring its former splendor. The château is now filled with exceptional collector's items, rivaling those found in the Louvre or Versailles. This private collection is considered unique in France and has earned a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide.

The estate spans 45 hectares, featuring what is described as the largest private garden in Europe. The tour provided a unique, uninterrupted two-hour journey through this "incredible domain," transformed by Garcia's vision into a "magical nocturnal escapade" and a "jewel of French heritage."

It's a 'double château.' There are only two places like this, and they were designed by the same architect: Le Vau, the architect of Versailles.

— Jacques GarciaExplaining the architectural significance of his estate.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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