listed castle for sale Charente, France

Just 8 km from Angoulême and its high-speed rail station, the Château de Balzac enjoys a privileged location in a protected and easily accessible environment. Listed as a historical monument, it was the residence of Jean-Louis Guez de Balzac, the 17th-century writer and academician. Its history, architecture, and remaining period features give it a truly unique character. The main building offers nearly 1,000 m² of living space. It includes vast reception rooms, a remarkable 18th-century oval salon, a vestibule adorned with ancient frescoes, as well as numerous rooms that have retained their fireplaces, wood paneling, and parquet floors. The ship's hull-shaped roof structure is also one of the château's most remarkable features. Outside, the monumental colonnade structures the courtyard and gives the whole a distinctive identity. The outbuildings, including former stables, barns, and service buildings, offer numerous possibilities for conversion. The estate extends over approximately 15 hectares with a wooded park, bridle paths, woods, an old wash house, a fishpond, and a canal, all bordered by the Charente River. Preservation work has been carried out over the years on the roofs, facades, outbuildings, and some of the historic decorations. The interior of the main house remains to be fully restored. It now offers the opportunity to envision an ambitious restoration, respectful of the history of the place, to create a large family residence or develop a hospitality and event project. A rare property, ideal for a buyer with a passion for heritage, history, and characterful properties. Agency fees: 5% including VAT, payable by the buyer. Price excluding agency fees: €1,000,000. Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Georisques website: www.georisques.gouv.fr