History, restoration and gardens of the Château du Rivau, in the Loire Valley
Le Rivau nearly vanished: how this Loire château was given a second life
Before being purchased in 1992, the Château du Rivau in Indre-et-Loire was on the brink of ruin. Today, it boasts its medieval keep, Renaissance stables, and gardens now awarded a prestigious label. Discover its remarkable heritage revival ahead of the 2026 European Heritage Days.
Editorial journal · Carte des Châteaux ·
On 19 and 20 September 2026, during the European Heritage Days, the Château du Rivau in Lémeré, Indre-et-Loire, will showcase images of its recent past to visitors: those of a domain long left to decay before its restoration. Behind this news lies a lesser-known story than that of the grand royal projects of the Loire Valley: that of a 15th-century seigneurial castle, fallen into severe disrepair by the late 20th century, then entirely revived by private owners from 1992 onwards. Between its medieval fortress, Renaissance stables, and contemporary art gardens, the Rivau stands today as one of the most complete examples of private heritage rescue in Touraine.
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