However it retains certain architectural features of a previous era such as the well presered gargoyles that serve both to evacuate rain-water and to protect the chateau from evil spirits. The “Château-Vieux”

Built by Foulques d’agoult around 1475, the “Chateau-Vieux”, although a fortress has architectural grace on account of its Italian Loggia and galleries. The Renaissance Wing called “Chateau-Neuf”

The facade of the Renaissance wing was built from 1526 and dominate the upper terrace. It is on three levels and retains a great purity of style, being separated by horizontal cornices.

Symetry of the facade is underlined by the mullion windows framed by doric pillars. The great staircase

The great double spiral staircase, a real architectural masterpiece, is unique in Provence.

Decorated with sculpted figures and a charming frieze, the staircase ends at the top of the tower under a perfectly curved cupola supported by a slender column The monumental fireplace

The “Sallestre” was the main reception room of the Chateu and retains the original 16th century floor tiles. However, it is the monumental fireplace that instantly captures the eye.

It comprises two distinct parts :

• The lower part is decorated by two corinthian columns which frame the hearth.
• The upper half is decorated by huge egyptian-style funeral urns with claw-like feet surmounted by Amero-indian heads (Aztec or Inca).

The decorative choice was obviously due to the discovery of the New World some sixty years prior to the construction of the Renaissance wing. ]]> http://www.chateau-de-lourmarin.com/EN/?feed=rss2&p=105 http://www.chateau-de-lourmarin.com/EN/?p=64 http://www.chateau-de-lourmarin.com/EN/?p=64#comments Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:29:07 +0000 admin http://www.chateau-de-lourmarin.com/EN/?p=64 Book “Les contes du Château de Lourmarin”

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