Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte – Maincy : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Are you planning an exciting daytrip to France? If so, the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in Maincy should be at the top of your list. This spectacular palace that dates back to the 17th century is a beautifully restored monument that was once the residence of Louis XIV. It has an intriguing history dating back to the 1600s and offers a wealth of interesting facts, information, and a travel guide that will make your visit to this incredible palace unforgettable. Explore the courtyards, gardens, and grand hotel, and don’t miss seeing the lush parklands or the breathtaking 17th century stables and chapel. From the fascinating architectural details to the spectacular gardens, there is so much to explore and discover at this magnificent palace. So, come join us for a virtual tour of one of France’s most iconic and picturesque châteaux.

Interesting Facts About Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte – Maincy

1. Located in Maincy, near Fontainebleau, the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte was designed by the famous 17th century architect Louis Le Vau and was the inspiration behind the Palace of Versailles.

2. The Château was built between 1658 and 1661 under the orders of Nicolas Fouquet, who used his immense wealth to pay for it, only to end up being arrested in 1661 due to charges of misappropriating funds while serving as the Superintendent of Finances.

3. In addition to breathtaking architecture, the château boasts a 50-meter long hedge maze, a terraced flower garden, an impressive park with huntsman lodges and a grand canal of waters.

4. There is an old legend associated with the construction of the Château. It is said that a giant appeared to oversee the construction and made sure the workers kept their promises.

5. The château has been owned by a number of private individuals since its original owner, Nicolas Fouquet, was arrested. It was finally purchased by Hugues Merle and his wife Marie-Lys Valette in the late 80’s and the couple has since invested a great deal of time and resources in its upkeep.

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History & Information About Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte – Maincy

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is a 17th-century French château located in Maincy, France, about 55 kilometers (34 miles) southeast of Paris. It is one of the best-known and most lavish examples of French classicism. Its design and construction, are often considered to have inspired the construction of the Palace of Versailles and it has long been considered one of the most beautiful French châteaux.

The château was built from 1658–1661 for Nicolas Fouquet, the Superintendent of Finances for King Louis XIV. Fouquet commissioned the construction of the château from architect Louis Le Vau, landscape architect André Le Nôtre and painter-decorator Charles Le Brun. Fouquet was the most powerful man in France in his day and the château was meant to reflect his power and status. The château was completed in 1661 but it cost almost double the amount that Fouquet had planned and the King was not pleased. He had Fouquet arrested and the château was nationalized.

Since its construction, the château has had several owners, including Duke de Richelieu in the early 19th century and the Harold S. Maugham family in the mid-20th century. In 1968, the Maughams gave the château to the Institut de France, and it is currently open to the public. The château has also been used as a filming location for several films, including the James Bond movie A View to a Kill and Disney’s 2011 remake of Beauty and the Beast.

Today, Vaux-le-Vicomte is under the management of the Patrimoine Tremplin, a French non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of French Heritage. The organization performs extensive renovations and upkeep on the property to ensure its beauty and preservation. They also organize special events throughout the year for visitors to enjoy.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte – Maincy

About Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture located near Maincy and Melun, in the Seine-et-Marne department of France. The chateau was originally built for Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV’s Superintendent of Finances, in the mid-17th century. Today the chateau and its gardens are open for visitors to explore.

How to Get to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

The closest international airport to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is Charles de Gaulle Airport, located around 40 miles away. The nearest regional airports are Aurillac Airport and Châlons Vatry Airport.

The chateau can also be reached via car or bus. It is located about 15 km south of Melun, and visitors can take the A4 eastbound from the city and exit at Maincy. Bus lines 69 and 224 both stop at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte.

Hours of Operation

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is open from 10 AM to 6 PM from Thursday to Sunday between April and October. The chateau is closed for certain holidays, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Admission Price

Admission to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is €15.50 per person.

Guided Tours

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte offers guided tours in English, French, and Spanish. These are offered between April and October on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10:15 AM, 11:15 AM, 3:45 PM, and 4:45 PM. Tickets are €20 per person.

Events

The chateau sometimes hosts events like exhibitions, concerts, and corporate functions. Visitors should check the website before their visit to see if any events are happening during their stay.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is during the summer months when the gardens are in full bloom. The chateau is also open for Halloween and Christmas, where visitors can enjoy special events and illumination of the gardens.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte – Maincy

Q: When was the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte built?

A: The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte was built between 1658 and 1661. It was designed for Nicolas Fouquet, the Superintendent of Finances of Louis XIV.

Q: Where is the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte located?

A: The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is located near the town of Maincy, in the Seine-et-Marne department of the Île-de-France region of France.

Q: What is the architectural style of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte?

A: The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte was inspired by the works of Italian architects, and is most closely related to the baroque style.

Q: Are there tours of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte?

A: Yes, guided tours of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte are available to visitors. The tours provide a detailed look at the interior of the building, and also include a walk through the gardens.

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