Christmas at Château d’Ansouis

The Château d’Ansouis has been standing for over a thousand years, overlooking the village of Ansouis and the Valley of the Aigues, in France.

The history of the castle is marked at the beginning of the XIII century by Elzear de Sabran and his wife Dauphine - or Delphine. Their wealth did not stop them from devoting their lives to God and helping the poor. Elzear was canonized in 1369 and Dauphine was beatified. Since then, every year in September, a procession celebrates the mystical love and the love of the humble they incarnate.

Gérard and Frédérique Rousset-Rouvière acquired Château d’Ansouis in January 2008 and appointed designer Jean-Jacques Bourgeois to renovate its interiors.

These photographs show the Château, ready for Christmas.







Beautiful stone stairs.


Under a large chestnut tree, the terrace overlooks a boxwood garden.




To continue with tradition, on Christmas eve, before midnight mass, a light meatless meal is served in the kitchen. The table is set on three layers of white tablecloths, which are successively removed during the meal, and adorned with three large white candles representing the Trinity.






A variety of thirteen desserts are served, in remembrance of the Last Supper, Jesus surrounded by his twelve apostles.


This eighteenth century Provencal cupboard maintains its original green patina.




This 18th century piece of furniture is called a "love letter" and was made for just that: love letter writing. It also served as fireplace screen.




Octagonal alcove on the second floor.

All images from here.

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