The imposing silhouette of Château du Vert-Bois stands before us. Its grandeur speaks of centuries past. This magnificent château in Bondues whispers tales of noble families and artistic treasures.
Built in 1660 by Jean-André Fourmestraux de Wazières the original structure was much smaller. He was a knight a lord of Greenwood La Rive and Hacquebart. He married Marie Kessel in 1639. Her father Philippe Kessel was the builder of the Château de Wattignies. Only the outer buildings remain from this first construction. They are the concierge and the dovecote.
In 1743 Jean-André’s grandson undertook a significant expansion. He built the main structure in the classic French style. The château is surrounded by a moat and four pavilions. The Pavillon de Flore the Chapel and two Chinese pavilions add to its unique charm. The interior boasts impressive collections of paintings sculptures furniture and silverware mostly from the 18th century. A testament to the wealth and taste of its former inhabitants.
Ownership changed hands throughout the years. The Wazières family held it for a long time. The title the château and the land passed down through generations. In 1876 Gaston de Wazières sold the château to Eugène Devemy. He had been the estate manager since 1869. Devemy’s daughter Marthe married Albert Félix Prouvost in 1879. The Prouvosts a prominent wool industrial family thereby inherited the property.
The family continues to reside in Château du Vert-Bois. Extensive restoration and modernization took place between 1939 and 1945. Today it remains a private residence. However its historical significance is undeniable. It’s a registered historical monument since December 17 1962. Its 60-hectare estate includes a craft village two restaurants and a park with sculptures by renowned artists like Giambologna Eugène Dodeigne Jules Paressant and Paul Hémery.
The Château du Vert-Bois is more than just a building. It’s a living testament to French history and artistic heritage. A place where past and present beautifully intertwine. As we stand here before its imposing façade let the stories of its past linger in our minds. A rich tapestry woven through generations of families and their extraordinary lives. A memory for us all to cherish.