THE HISTORY OF CHÂTEAU PLESSIS GALLU
A Touraine heritage since 1379
« This small château with a discreet history has remained in the shadow of its grand neighbour, the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau. »
Historical research by Geneviève Guilpain – Azay Autrefois (Azay in Bygone Times)
Key Dates
First Historical Record
Feudal declaration (aveu) of Jean de Sancerre, Lord of Azay-le-Rideau, to the Lord of Marcillac, mentioning the Plessis estate. The land was then held in dependency of Villandry.
Noble Families
The estate passed through several noble families: Odart, Barbe, then the Gallu family, whose name permanently became attached to the property.
French Revolution
The estate was sold as national property during the Revolution. It was acquired by François Bacot de Romand, then passed to the Pavy and Dreux families.
Auguste Renoir at Plessis
The impressionist master Auguste Renoir stayed at the estate during his visits to the Loire Valley. His presence left an indelible artistic imprint on Plessis Gallu.
The Dreux-Pavy Family
The property was passed down through the Dreux-Pavy family, who preserved and maintained the estate throughout the 20th century.
A New Chapter
Acquisition and restoration of the estate into luxury holiday cottages, blending historical charm with modern comfort in the heart of the Loire Valley.
Renoir at Plessis Gallu
During his stays in Touraine, Auguste Renoir discovered Plessis Gallu. This picturesque estate, nestled in the Indre valley, offered the painter the ideal setting of light and landscapes that inspired his art.
Sources: Geneviève Guilpain, Azay Autrefois – Departmental archives of Indre-et-Loire (ADIL)