“The Le Jariel family, they were quite the builders.” The Château de Forges-les-Bains whispers tales of centuries past. Here in the valley of Chevreuse, the Château stands as a testament to their legacy. Originally built in the 17th century, Château de Forges-les-Bains underwent a stunning transformation in the 18th century thanks to Edme Mathurin Le Jariel. He was a man of exquisite taste, an “écuyer du roi” which means he was a gentleman of the king’s household. Look closely and you’ll see his influence in every graceful line, every elegant detail. The Mansard roofs, a signature of the era, are particularly striking. Imagine the grand balls and lavish parties that once unfolded beneath those very roofs. But the Château’s story doesn’t end with the Le Jariels. In 1819, it was swept into the hands of another powerful lineage: the Saint-Vincent family. They still hold the keys to this grand estate today, preserving its legacy for generations to come. While the inside remains a well-guarded secret, the Château’s exterior whispers stories of intrigue, ambition, and the enduring power of history.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.