History

An Exceptional Historic Place

The current chateau was built on the ruins of the medieval castle.

Several illustrious figures trod the halls of the Chateau de Canisy, such as King Henry IV of France, the Marshal of Matignon, and the famous political philosopher Alexis de Tocqueville (Democracy in America, 1835).

In the 20th century, in the midst of the Second World War, the chateau was occupied successively by the Germans and by General Omar Bradley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and commander of the First US Army and the Twelfth Army Group.

Afterwards, the Major general James Rudder, hero of the Pointe du Hoc, occupied the chateau as well.

Then, the chateau was used as a military hospital.

A tradition of Hospitality

There is a close link between the Château de Canisy and the US, illustrated by a shared tradition of hospitality. The château has welcomed many prestigious guests such as Robert McNamara, Henry Kissinger and political leaders from America, Asia and Europe for the Aspen Institute meetings.

Every year, it also hosts American governors, members of the US Congress and military officials to celebrate D-Day.

In the past, the château has welcomed Empress Masako of Japan, Infanta Elena of Spain and many famous musicians and singers such as Joan Baez.

A CULTURAL PURPOSE

The chateau stays true to its cultural purpose. The theater was named after Laurent Terzieff, who performed at the château for a long time, as well as Jean Rochefort, who was a equestrian and a horse show enthusiast.

Many concerts took place at the château. Various artists and friends shared their talents here, such as pianist Anne Quefellec, harpist Marielle Nordmann and singer Joan Baez.

One castle, one family, one thousand years

The owners of the chateau, Count and Countess de Kergorlay and their children Marie-Victoire and Henry-Louis are the descendants of some of William the Conqueror’s companions. Their family includes many leading figures whom we honor by giving their names to our suites, like Empress Joséphine first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte and a close cousin of the Countess’ family.

One of their ancestors was the son-in-law of famous Charles Carroll of Carrollton, who signed the American Declaration of Independence.