Cirey Castle today

Following the death of Count Hugues de Salignac Fénelon in October 2021, the responsibility for the Château de Cirey was entrusted to his eldest daughter, Adélaïde. Today, Adélaïde and her husband, Thierry Pringalle, are fully committed to the management and preservation of the estate, continuing the family's dedication to this exceptional place.

Numerous improvements have been made, particularly in the park, based on archival documents, in order to recreate gardens inspired by those that may have existed in the 18th century. This approach reflects a desire to respect the site's history while restoring its clarity and harmony.

Special attention is also paid to the quality of the visit, in order to offer the public a richer, more understandable and more immersive experience, both in the castle and in its gardens.

The current owners are fully aware of the privilege of living in such a place, overlooking the Blaise Valley, but also of the responsibility it entails. First and foremost, a family responsibility, since this is an inheritance meant to be passed down. Secondly, a responsibility to preserve its heritage and history, as the château was once home to major figures in French intellectual history, such as Voltaire and the Marquise du Châtelet, whose scientific and philosophical legacy continues to influence our time.

Preserving traces of their passage is at the heart of this commitment: Voltaire's small theatre, certain parts of the castle he had built and the very spirit of the place constitute a precious heritage that it is essential to protect.

Opening the castle to the public then takes on its full meaning. It allows visitors not only to share this historically rich site, but also to contribute concretely to its preservation. The owners are keen to emphasize how essential the presence of visitors is: all revenue from visits is dedicated to the upkeep and restoration of the estate.

Maintaining such a complex is indeed a constant challenge. Roofs, buildings, grounds: the work is extensive and costly. Yet, this commitment finds its reward in the visitors' eyes, in their pleasure in discovering the place. Their satisfaction provides daily motivation to continue this demanding, but profoundly meaningful, work.