History of the Chateau

The origins of the Nainville-les-Roches estate before the French Revolution remain largely unknown.

Throughout the 19th century, various counts and dukes took over the property, transforming it over time. Here’s what we know of its story today.

1724

The original chateau was owned by the Lords of Boisse.

1922-1924

In 1922, Léon Carez chose to demolish the château, initiating extensive renovations that brought new energy to the village. Inspired by Louis XIII architecture, the new château was completed in 1924, just two years after the old building was dismantled.

Carez preserved elements from the Duke of Rovigo’s era, including woodwork bearing the Duke’s coat of arms and motto, Deus mecum nihil timeo—“God is with me; I fear nothing.”

2019

Virginie and Denis Geny-Gros decided to breathe new life into the Nainville-les-Roches estate. Captivated by its beauty and history, they are now dedicated to restoring and enhancing the property, transforming it into a welcoming venue for weddings and celebrations. A new chapter begins.

1802

General Savary, Duke of Rovigo, acquired the Nainville estate. A close confidant of Napoleon Bonaparte, he was serving as Minister of General Police at the time. Distinguished on several battlefields—Austerlitz, Eylau, Ostrolenka, and Friedland—he married the Countess d’Astarac around 1818, who was the daughter of Nainville’s former lord. The Duke of Rovigo soon embarked on major transformations of both the estate and the nearby village, demolishing the old chateau, building a new one, and moving village houses further east to expand the grounds.

1948-1953

In 1948, the chateau was sold to the Foundry of France. In 1953, it was acquired by the French government to establish the National School for Fire Officer Cadets.

2008

The chateau was sold to private owners, though it remained unoccupied and unmaintained.