Have you ever heard of a castle that whispered of ancient times? In the heart of the sprawling forest of Montmorency, a hidden treasure emerges. This is the Château de la Chasse. It stands before you, a testament to centuries of whispering tales. For centuries this castle was a sanctuary, a place where emperors and kings sought refuge. The name “Château de la Chasse” might tempt you to believe it’s named for the hunting that once took place here. However, the name comes from the Gaulish word “cassanos” meaning “oak”. This makes sense, as the castle is surrounded by the majestic oaks of the Montmorency Forest. The castle, while its origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery, began taking shape around the 13th century. The powerful Montmorency family, who ruled the land, played a key role in its history. A true castle, it was equipped for defense, with towers and walls designed to withstand any attacks. In the late 1700”s, though, the castle underwent a significant transformation. The towers were trimmed so that the castle was no longer as imposing. A new house was built and the old windows were replaced, which brought more comfort, but also a subtle change to its appearance.
Today the castle stands as a reminder of a vibrant past, a place where history unfolded and empires rose and fell. It’s a place where the whisper of history still echoes through the halls.
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.