Maison-forte de Montagnieu
The Montagnieu fortified house is a remarkable building of the heritage of Isle-Crémieu. A place of seigniorial power but also fortified, the house has passed through the ages and owners: it is today inhabited by a Catholic community.
Probably built at the beginning of the 14th century by the family of the same name, it was regularly modified until the 16th century in order to make this fortified and austere structure a little more comfortable. The 18th century saw a period of great transformation when the southern surrounding wall was demolished, thus opening up the view. Two pavilions are built with the stones as well as outbuildings with oven, dovecote, barn…
Today, the house retains its imposing seigniorial dwelling made up of rectangular floors ending in old wooden hoardings, traces of which are still visible. The slate roof securely covers everything. A beautiful semi-hors d'oeuvre tower houses a 15th century spiral staircase ending in another smaller spiral staircase tower leading to an oratory with a ribbed vault, finished with four remarkable carved bases. The facade bears witness to the periods of redevelopment, particularly through the beautiful mullioned windows with cushions. A magnificent and old sundial brightens everything up.
The site can be visited during the European Heritage Days. The rest of the year, the Catholic community of Chemin Neuf lives there and offers retreats and spiritual activities.
Rankings & Labels
- Registered historic site and monument
Themes
Location details
- In the countryside
Opening
From 01/01 to 31/12 every day.
