Château de Pomponne

In 1663, Robert Arnauld d’Andilly started rebuilding Château de Pomponne. He chose the very spot where we stand today. The old Château de Pomponne was closer to the current town hall. D’Andilly’s new château boasted moats and drawbridges, a true testament to its grandeur. The gardens, designed by the renowned Le Nôtre, featured intricate paths, elegant avenues, and stunning water features. He even had pipes installed to bring water from surrounding sources to feed the magnificent fountains and reflecting pool. Château de Pomponne became a place of both beauty and innovation. His son, Simon Arnauld, Marquis de Pomponne, continued to enhance the estate. He even had the royal road, now the N34, rerouted in 1676. This allowed for a more convenient path that skirted the south side of the château’s park. Simon also added a private chapel in 1681. The next year, he expanded his holdings by acquiring the land of Bordeaux. The Château de Pomponne played a crucial role in French history. In 1918, it served as the headquarters for Allied forces during the pivotal Second Battle of the Marne. Here, General Pétain, later Marshal Pétain, issued the order that halted the German advance. This marked the turning point towards victory. A plaque once commemorated this historic event, but sadly, it was removed during the German occupation of World War II. Today, Château de Pomponne serves as a CRS barracks. It stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. It’s a place where architectural splendor meets historical significance.