Castle of Havré

The Castle of the Dukes of Havré: A historic gem to discover Dating back to 1266, the Castle of Havré has withstood the centuries, enduring numerous sieges and transformations. Owned by the House of Croÿ since 1518, it became a prominent center of the Renaissance, where Ambroise Paré saved Charles Philippe de Croÿ using an innovative technique. In the 17th century, Charles Alexandre de Croÿ restored the castle, transforming it into a magnificent residence that hosted notable figures such as Van Dyck and Rubens. After the Revolution, the castle declined and was abandoned in 1839. Saved from ruin by the association "Les Amis du Château des Ducs d’Havré" in 1978, this former fortress now benefits from continuous restoration. Classified as heritage since 1936, this symbol of 16th and 17th-century opulence celebrates in 2024 the 45 years of dedication from the nonprofit organization, which works to preserve it and reintegrate it into contemporary life. At weekends and on public holidays, during the summer period when the gardens are open (mid-May to September), from 2pm to 6pm, the exhibition rooms in the Tour des Gardes and the courtyard of the château are freely accessible, unless the château is rented out.