Vaux le Vicomte

Vaux le Vicomte is a castle that was built over the course of 5 years and finished in 1661. On the night of the grand opening, the owner of the chateau, Nicolas Fouquet, hosted King Louis XIV and the Queen Mother, to a lavish and decadent festivity. Unfortunately for Fouquet, the King was filled with rage and jealousy that such unprecedented admiration and applause would go to someone other than him. A week later, the King ordered Fouquet’s arrest, and exiled Fouquet’s wife.

Nicolas Fouquet

It was several years before she regained control of the estate, which had been emptied of all its statues, tapestries, and furniture. Over the years, the castle was passed down into different hands, and it underwent several restorations. Today, the chateau is owned by Patrice and Christina de Vogüé, and it is open in the summer months to the general public. Luckily for us, this year marked the first time that Vaux le Vicomte has been open during the winter.

Our experience at the chateau was quite extraordinary. The beautiful garden à la française, was spectacular. We could only imagine what it would look like in the summer.

http://www.vaux-le-vicomte.com

Related journal entry:
le 6 janvier