The crumbling red chateau...................

If you click on the photographs below you will see the images larger and in more detail.

I have watched a beautiful hidden chateau just 5 minutes from my home slowly crumble over the years. Each winter more and more fell to the ground but she still remained proud. Imagine my horror when I was told she had been painted scarlet red as a publicity stunt by her English owners to try and sell her. I was not the only one to be shocked, the local village was up in arms and the mayor was greatly offended. I had to explain many times to French friends that it was not a normal thing that an English person would do and I actually felt quite ashamed. In the winter with the bare trees that hideous red could just be seen through the trees and I was glad when spring arrived and all the new foliage hid that terrible sight.

Imagine my delight and great relief when I drove to the gates yesterday to see that she has been repainted and a public apology attached to the gates from her owners.

And so, she still crumbles and awaits a new owner but she is now back to her old elegant self. How I long for her to be purchased and restored gently.

She may be just four good walls as the interior and roof has now crashed to the floor but she is still wonderful. I took this shot through the crack in the front door............

The old pigeonnier still stands firm with its gorgeous iron rails on the stone steps....................

She has so many delicious features....................

She has waited silently for a long, long time and can wait even longer. But at least she stands and waits elegantly again after her ordeal!!!