Have you ever walked through a place steeped in history? The Chateau de Mortefontaine stands before you. This magnificent chateau whispers tales of centuries past. It began its life in the 17th century. The Marquis de Montmélian was its first owner. He used it as his home.
Later the Le Peletier family owned it. Claude Le Peletier de Morfontaine a powerful figure served as Controller General of Finances. His descendant Louis Le Peletier Marquis de Montmélian transformed the grounds. He created a stunning Anglo-Chinese garden. Imagine a picturesque landscape. It featured an artificial stream. Tiny ponds dotted the area. There was a Chinese pavilion an obelisk a column. A “valley of tombs” added a touch of mystery. A cool icehouse topped with a pavilion offered respite. A grand number of animal statues decorated the scene. There was even a theatre an orangery and a bird aviary. He also enlarged the grand park. He had the Delille rock engraved. This honored the famous poet Abbe Delille author of the descriptive poem Les Jardins.
In 1798 Joseph Bonaparte brother of Napoleon acquired the estate. It became a stage for significant events. In 1800 the Treaty of Mortefontaine was signed here. This treaty established peace between France and the United States. The preliminary peace talks of Amiens were also negotiated here in 1802. Two notable weddings took place at the Chateau. Joachim Murat married Caroline Bonaparte here. Then Prince Camille Borghese married Pauline Bonaparte. Joseph Bonaparte greatly loved Mortefontaine. He frequently resided there. He dedicated himself to improving the grand park. He constructed about ten follies. These structures included bridges towers ruins and an underground passage between the park’s two sections.
After several more owners the chateau passed to the Order of the Dominicans in 1945. They established a convent in the park. They opened a school within the chateau. Today the Institut Saint-Dominique a school college and high school thrives. It welcomes over 1000 students.
The Chateau de Mortefontaine its two entrance pavilions and park including the icehouse were listed as historical monuments on August 2 2004. The park designed in 1770 is recognised in the pre-inventory of remarkable gardens. This beautiful chateau stands as a testament to its rich and influential past. It continues to shape the lives of the students and visitors who encounter its unique blend of history and modern life.