Visit this Château in Moselle, France, near Luxembourg
Discover the Château de Preisch
Let us tell you a thousand-year story
Step throug the Château's doors and dive into a place steeped in history, nestled in a romantic park. Here, every stone and every artefact whispers the past of this tousand-year-old estate. From the first remains of the feudal era to the present day, let us guide you through this Château in Moselle for an interlude between nature and culture, uncovering well-kept treasures.
Then and now
It all began in 1122, when the first stones of the medieval castle were laid to protect the fort of Rodemack. Keep an eye out : four towers and moats are still visible today, relics of a story that stretches back nearly 1,000 years.
Over the centuries, Château de Preisch, located in the heart of Europe, underwent significant changes.
The original fortified castle was destroyed by order of Louis XIV as a gesture of reconciliation with the Spanish Netherlands.
The so-called "modern" château was built in 1620 by Conrad de Soetern and Marguerite de Mérode.
Then, many families took possession of this strategic château. In the mid-18th century, François de La Salle drew the first plan of the estate and built the enclosing wall as well as the first chapel, a humble structure presenting romanesque architecture…
200 years ago, Jacques Milleret brought botanical species from all around the world to Preisch, to create the English garden that we can enjoy today.
In 1855, the domaine de Preisch becomes the property of Charles Joseph de Gargan who gathers in the castle a collection of artefacts, furniture and paintings from different eras from all over Europe. He is also responsible for the luxurious transformation of the Sainte Madeleine Chapel in 1862, turning it into a baroque monument inspired by the Italian Renaissance.
Visiting the Château
Since then, the domain has been passed down through generations, each of which persisted in preserving this special place. It allows us today to offer you the discovery of an artistic and cultural heritage. Wander through the various rooms of the château and admire the art collection. Get as close as possible to these beautiful objects to observe their finest details and appreciate their beauty. Paintings and furniture from the 16th to the 19th centuries are the well-kept treasures of this castle in Moselle, listed in the Inventory of Historical Monuments of France. Culture enthusiasts and curious visitors alike will be delighted by this perfectly preserved place that has withstood the test of time.
At the Château de Preisch, history is everywhere : from past to admire, to present to write together, that’s a whole world of exploration and experiences opening up to visitors...
Practical information
Tours at the Château de Preisch are self-guided (or guided, depending on days and seasons). A soundtrack is played on speakers througout the visit, and you can learn more thanks to descriptive booklet for adults, and a fun, interactive version for children: adapted explanations and games allow families to explore this historic château together.
Visiting the Sainte Madeleine Chapel
In 1869 Charles Joseph de Gargan, owner of the estate at that time, enlisted all the country's leading artistic figures to transform the simple chapel into a majestic monument. Stained-glass windows manufactured by master glass-maker Maréchal, renowned for his work in the Metz cathedral. Bold sculptures, magnificent white marble altar, and Italian marble mosaic flooring: nothing was too beautiful to adorn this chapel.
The keystones depict the story of the Domaine de Preisch : the first one bears the coat of arms of François de Lasalle, the second that of Monsieur de Gargan. Among the lateral arches, you can see the heraldry of Albert of Preisch, first lord of Preisch (1122) and that of the Schawenbourg family, whose two 16th-century effigies are located on either side of the white marble altar.
There are hidden and carefully guarded gems that leave an unforgettable impression, and the Sainte-Madeleine Chapel, just a short walk from the Château, is one of those treasures you won't forget.
The chapel is registered as a Historical Monument of France, and is currently undergoing restoration. While its façade immediately impresses visitors, its interior will go through a long process of renovation to bring back its former splendor. In this project, the DRAC, Fondation du Patrimoine, mission Bern and the Loto du Patrimoine offered their valuable support. These generous and essential contributions will enable us to welcome the public again.
The château's park : a land of nature, adventure, and discovery
On almost 80 hectares, the park of the Château de Preisch makes you dive into a preserved and surprising nature. Wandering through the grounds, various paths invite you to experience poetry and magic.
Let’s venture, rejuvenate, relax, escape and learn about this land of intrigue, exploration and tranquility in Moselle.
Walk around freely in the English garden : romanticism is everywhere. Nice little cast iron bridges looking like branches, two hundred-year-old trees, a serene atmosphere, and a historic feudal mound await you.
To a poetic tune, take the botanical trail for a playful and astonishing walk. You’ll see majestic trees like you’ve never seen before.
Visit the historic vegetable garden that belies its age: 200 years of history unfold over 1 hectare, now transformed into a topiary garden. A private and peaceful place where magic happens.
Experience a sensory walk through the permaculture garden : a productive method embraced by the estate, where work is done by mimicking nature. At Château de Preisch, permaculture is a way of life.
For the delight of both young and old, visit the farm where every animal plays a specific role in the Domaine’s ecosystem : Hampshire sheep, donkeys, Beltie cows and rabbits…
Let the games begin ! Classic wooden games bring life to the topiary garden, where we cultivate joy as much as the pleasure of sharing.
