Château de Vaux le Vicomte, Maincy

Nestled in the picturesque commune of Maincy, France, the Château de Vaux le Vicomte stands as an exquisite example of French Baroque architecture. This 17th-century château, with its harmonious design and grandiose gardens, is a splendid attraction for those interested in history, art, and landscape design.

The château was built from 1658 to 1661 for Nicolas Fouquet, the Superintendent of Finances for Louis XIV. Its creation involved a trio of the era's most talented individuals: architect Louis Le Vau, painter-decorator Charles Le Brun, and landscape designer André Le Nôtre. Their combined genius resulted in a property that would become the blueprint for the Palace of Versailles.

Visitors to Château de Vaux le Vicomte are treated to a stunning display of luxury and innovation. The château's interior boasts lavish rooms, ornate decorations, and a collection of period furniture that captures the essence of 17th-century opulence. The highlight is the Grand Salon, a pioneering oval-shaped room with a dome that served as a model for the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles.

The gardens are equally impressive, stretching over 33 hectares and designed in the classic French formal style. They feature sculpted bushes, ornamental basins, and a grand perspective that extends for 1.5 kilometers, culminating with the Hercules statue. Nighttime visits are particularly magical, with the gardens illuminated and the château's façade bathed in light.

The château also has a turbulent history. Shortly after its completion, Fouquet was arrested by order of King Louis XIV, who was reportedly jealous of the estate's magnificence. The property was then confiscated and Fouquet spent the remainder of his life in prison.

Today, Château de Vaux le Vicomte is privately owned and open to the public. It hosts various events throughout the year, including candlelit evenings, Christmas festivities, and costume balls. For the average tourist, it offers a chance to step back in time and experience the grandeur of French aristocracy.