Located on a terrace overlooking the Rupt-de-Mad River in Meurthe-et-Moselle (Grand Est region, France), the Château de Jaulny presents a facade that evokes a conspicuously defensive aspect. Our eyes, no longer accustomed to blind facades punctuated with arrow slits and where the substantial thickness of the walls can be guessed, are intrigued and question the openings and irregularities of centuries of modern era transformations made by the former owners of the place. Since 2020, it is the couple formed by Aurore Thiébaut and Emmanuel Pénétrat who have acquired this mansion of medieval origin and appearance.
1060
The knight Milon de Jaulny
Although there is evidence of a lordship on these lands as early as 1060 under the knight Milon de Jaulny, it is very difficult to determine the origin of the current castle. Looking back at the many and varied masters of the estate, Jaulny appears as a property in "franc alleu," not as a fief. The lordship of Jaulny was divided in 1357 between the two families of Jaulny and d'Armoises.
Jeanne des Armoises
The rumor still persists...
The name of the Armoises still holds the most significant place in the story told here: Jeanne des Armoises, who allegedly married Robert des Armoies in 1436, is, according to certain theories, none other than the famous Joan of Arc. This theory is supported by Thierry Dehayes in his book "La Fabrique de Jeanne d'Arc," published in 2021. Joan of Arc, then a princess of France, would have been, by marriage, the owner of this place, as well as other neighboring lordships. This theory sheds light on her extradition from Rouen, where, according to official history, she was burned to death in 1431.
Jaulny de nos jours
A team of enthusiasts working towards success.
For being among the very first to support us in our efforts to highlight the heritage rescuers, the Château de Jaulny is a place we know very well and have been able to follow since the beginning of its revival.
Aurore, Emmanuel, their friends, and the volunteers have shown endless energy since 2019 to unite and succeed in carrying out the necessary projects for the conservation of the castle. Their participatory and cultural approach does not make this place a highly profitable enterprise, but that is not the goal. Financial balance has been achieved, and the serene prospect of work on the roofs, in the park, and on the masonry is assured.
The commercial activities implemented here brilliantly harmonize with the cultural activities, while forging a strong social bond in the heart of a rural Meurthe-et-Moselle village.
In our view, the Château de Jaulny combines quite well the four pillars of sustainable development. Indeed, environmental action is anchored here in the conservation of an ancient built ensemble, as well as in its park and in the pursuit of maintaining biodiversity. The cultural aspect is evident, combining historical research and education during visits and welcoming school groups. The social aspect is ensured by the diversity, quality, and quantity of public events organized here, as well as the spirit of camaraderie and friendship that prevails. The economic and financial aspect, meanwhile, was a real challenge that was resolved through the hard work and patience of Aurore and Emmanuel.
And here we have a castle managed sustainably.
Thanks for reading and don't forget to watch our mini-film about this wonderful place !
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