Château de Candé: A Hidden Gem in the Indre-et-Loire

Tucked away in the lush landscape of the Indre-et-Loire department of central France, the Château de Candé is a beautiful and historically significant estate that offers a glimpse into both the medieval and modern pasts. Unlike some of the more famous châteaux of the Loire Valley, such as Chambord or Chenonceau, Château de Candé has a more intimate feel, but its charm and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for those interested in French history, architecture, and culture.

The history of Château de Candé dates back to the Middle Ages, though the current structure was largely built during the 16th century. Originally a fortified manor, it was transformed into a Renaissance château by the Saint-Briçon family. Over the centuries, the château changed hands multiple times, undergoing various renovations and expansions that reflect different architectural styles, from medieval fortifications to elegant Renaissance and early modern influences.

In 1927, the château was purchased by Charles Bedaux, a French-American industrialist who played a key role in shaping its modern identity. Bedaux was not only a wealthy businessman but also an eccentric figure with a passion for high society, innovation, and adventure. Under his ownership, Château de Candé became a luxurious, modern estate equipped with the latest technologies of the time, including advanced plumbing and electricity systems, which were quite rare in French châteaux during that period.

Château de Candé’s architectural style is a blend of Renaissance elegance and 20th-century innovation. The structure features traditional elements like turrets, steeply pitched roofs, and large windows typical of French châteaux, but it also incorporates modern amenities that were state-of-the-art during the early 20th century. The château’s interiors are particularly noteworthy for their combination of historical charm and contemporary luxury.

The grand rooms are adorned with rich wood paneling, tapestries, and antique furniture, yet they also include modern conveniences like bathrooms with American-style fixtures and heating systems. The château’s library is a highlight, with its extensive collection of rare books and cozy reading spaces, while the music room houses a unique organ that can be played both manually and automatically—a rare technological marvel for its time.

The gardens and grounds of Château de Candé are equally enchanting. Spread over several hectares, the estate features beautifully landscaped lawns, formal gardens, and wooded areas, offering visitors the opportunity to stroll through a serene and picturesque environment. The views from the château overlook the peaceful River Indre, adding to the château’s idyllic charm.

While the Château de Candé is a stunning architectural gem in its own right, it is perhaps best known for hosting one of the most famous events of the 20th century: the wedding of Edward VIII, the former King of England, and Wallis Simpson. This event, which took place on June 3, 1937, captured the attention of the world and forever linked the château with a dramatic chapter of British royal history.

Edward VIII had abdicated the throne in December 1936 in order to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée, a relationship that was deemed unacceptable by the British establishment. After his abdication, the couple took up residence in France, and the Château de Candé was chosen as the venue for their private and discreet wedding.

The wedding ceremony, attended by a small group of close friends, took place in the château’s library. Though it was a low-key affair, it became one of the most talked-about weddings in modern history due to the controversial nature of the marriage and Edward’s decision to give up the throne. Today, visitors to the château can still see the library where the wedding took place, along with various artifacts and photographs from the event.

Charles Bedaux, the owner of the château during the famous wedding, was a colorful and controversial figure. Born in France, he emigrated to the United States, where he made a fortune in industrial engineering. Bedaux developed the “Bedaux System,” a method for improving labor efficiency that was widely adopted by factories in the early 20th century.

In addition to his business pursuits, Bedaux was a well-known socialite, hosting lavish parties at Château de Candé for the elite of European and American society. His guests included politicians, artists, and even royalty, which is how the château came to be the setting for Edward and Wallis’s wedding.

However, Bedaux’s legacy is complicated by his involvement with both Allied and Nazi officials during World War II. His connections to high-ranking figures in both camps led to accusations of collaboration, and he was arrested by the Americans in 1944. Before he could stand trial, Bedaux died under mysterious circumstances, leaving behind a legacy of both brilliance and controversy.

Today, Château de Candé is open to the public and managed by the Indre-et-Loire department. Visitors can explore its historic rooms, which have been preserved as they were during the time of the royal wedding. The château also features exhibitions on the life of Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson, as well as the Bedaux family and their contributions to the estate.

One of the highlights of visiting Château de Candé is the opportunity to see the fusion of historical and modern elements that make this château unique. The elegant Renaissance architecture contrasts with the early 20th-century innovations that were introduced by Charles Bedaux, offering a fascinating look at how the château evolved over the centuries.

The château is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, which are perfect for a leisurely walk. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the estate, take in the views of the River Indre, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Loire Valley.

Château de Candé may not be as well-known as some of the grander châteaux of the Loire Valley, but its historical significance, architectural beauty, and association with one of the most famous royal weddings of the 20th century make it a fascinating destination for history buffs and travelers alike. Whether you’re interested in the romance and scandal of Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson’s wedding, the innovations of Charles Bedaux, or simply the charm of a lesser-known French château, Château de Candé offers a rich and memorable experience in the heart of the Indre-et-Loire.

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