Moated in the 1400s and humanized by the Renaissance, half attractive
château, half fortress, Le Rivau is one of the most important places in
the Touraine region. In Rabelais' Gargantua, it was given to captain
Tolmere as a reward for his victories in the Picrocholean Wars.
In 1429, towards the end of the Hundred Years' War, before the
siege of Orleans, Joan of Arc and her followers came to fetch horses at
Le Rivau, already renowned for the quality of its equipage and war
horses who were raised there. In 1510 François de Beauvau, captain of
François I, constructed the monumental stables in the outbuildings
courtyard, that supplied royal stallions. He died at the Battle of Sesia
River, at the side of Bayard, on 30 April 1524.
Since 1992, the new owners have undertaken a huge renovation
campaign to prevent the decay of the castle, stable, and winery. This
ensemble is quite exceptional in the region and was designated as a
"Monument historique".
12 newly designed gardens (listed as "remarkable gardens") evoke
the medieval art of gardening, while temporary and permanent exhibits
display contemporary art.
Fairy tale gardens The 12 gardens of Rivau are labeled Jardin Remarquable,
a French organisation the recognises remarkable gardens. They are
inspired by fairytales and legends and take the visitors in a beautiful
and fantastical journey. The Rivau fairytales gardens are also a treat
for the rose lovers and gardeners. The Gardens display a collection of
more than 300 roses from such famous rose makers as Andre Eve or David
Austin. The gardens of the Rivau are also famous for their contemporary
art sculptures that are displayed around the gardens with pieces of
artists such as Fabien Verschaere, Cat Loray, Jerôme Basserode, Frans
Krajcberg ou de Philippe Ramette présentes dans les jardins du Rivau.