Descent into time The secret cellars of the Fresnaye manor open for the first time The manor of La Fresnaye, an architectural gem and witness to a centuries-old history, is about to reveal one of its best-kept mysteries. On the occasion of the Heritage Days, dedicated to architectural heritage, the cellars will be exceptionally open to the public. A first in the history of places. The history of La Fresnaye is anchored in the time of Henri IV. It is during his reign, thanks to Mathurin de Fontenay, lord of the place and faithful companion in arms of the king, that the residence takes a decisive turn. The manor bears the mark of a rare refinement: Italianate gallery, monumental stairs, circular donjon, horizontal portcullis unique in its kind... But behind the nobility of these facades, extends a more secret universe, almost forgotten: a network of cellars whose corridors, alcoves and vaults tell another facet of the mansion, more intimate and mysterious. These underground spaces, usually closed to view, reveal an almost labyrinthine architecture. By going through them, we better understand the complex structure of the manor, the result of centuries of additions, transformations and adaptations. Here, the stone still echoes the footsteps of those who once walked around it, between reserves and hidden passages. For this unprecedented opening, the visitor will be invited to descend on the other side of the setting and dive into an atmosphere where shadow and light sculpt volumes. A rare experience, which promises to marry the emotion of discovery and the raw beauty of architecture. A unique opportunity to travel through time by crossing the door of the cellars of La Fresnaye. Because after these two days, they will close up again, taking with them their share of mystery... Informations 3€, free <18 years.

Address
La Fresnaye, 61130 Saint-Germain-de-la-Coudre, Orne, Normandie, France