Castle in France with 100 rooms up for sale at $17.7M, holds almost 1,000 years of history

A Historic French Castle on the Market

A remarkable castle in France has recently gone on sale, but its hefty price tag might keep most people away. Still, the castle’s nearly 1,000-year history could attract a broader audience.

Situated in southeastern Provence, Le Château de la Verdière boasts 100 rooms, alongside a courtyard, terrace, olive grove, and even a helipad. The impressive space includes historic salons, reception areas, vaulted medieval rooms, and a 13th-century Romanesque church, spread across 53,820 square feet on about 40 acres of land.

According to Alain Lebreton, who works with Provence Verte Sotheby’s International Realty, the property has been “meticulously restored” over several years, specifically from 2003 to 2010.

The restoration work focused on reviving the 18th-century features, including the Gyp series, which is a unique decorative plasterwork from the region. “Gypsley is a shaped and carved plaster that hardens in the air, somewhat similar to cane,” explained Lebreton. “This technique is almost exclusive to Provence and was prevalent from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution, especially used in fireplaces and ceiling designs.”

The castle originally functioned as a military fortress that defended the route between Arles and Castellane back in the 10th century. Over time, it expanded, particularly between 1437 and 1613, with significant parts of the current structure dating back to the 18th century.

Lebreton mentioned that “all these original elements are incredibly well-preserved,” and he expressed that the château is now prepared for new owners who can appreciate its vast potential. Interestingly, despite being secluded, it’s only a 10-minute helicopter ride to Saint-Tropez and approximately three hours on the TGV to Paris.

However, the castle’s asking price is set at €15 million or about $17.7 million, which might deter many interested buyers. For those who question the cost, Lebreton characterized the property as “an exceptional rarity.” He emphasized that opportunities to own châteaux of this magnitude and quality in southern France are extremely scarce.

Lebreton also highlighted that some parts of the grounds remain undeveloped, offering potential for building additional luxury features like a spa or wellness center. “This isn’t just a home; it’s a canvas for creativity, a sanctuary where elegance, history, and the natural beauty of Provence converge,” he concluded.