Bombon, Île-de-France 77720

A 13th-century, fortified seigniorial chateau, listed as a Historical Monument with water-filled moats and 4 hectares of grounds, at the gates of Paris in the Seine-et-Marne department. Surrounded by a double row of lime trees that provides the property with plenty of privacy and shields it from all disturbances, the impressive farm, accessible via an ancient drawbridge that spans its water-filled moats, is composed of two square towers, including a corner one, which were used to reinforce its defensive system in the Middle Ages. Wooden carriage doors open onto an arched covered passageway under the guardhouse, the latter of which is decorated with a hipped dormer window and arrow slits that bear witness to its defensive past. The buildings, in ashlar and rubble stone, have exteriors punctuated by lattice windows with ashlar stone surrounds, while their flat-tile roofs participate in unifying the architectural complex and are topped here and there by finials as well as hipped and hayloft dormer windows, some of which are topped with semi-circular or triangular pediments.The cobblestone courtyard and seigniorial abode, vestiges of the medieval period, are surrounded by 13th-century constructions, including the covered passageway under the guardhouse, the dovecote and a barn nearly 45 metres long. The seigniorial dwelling includes several living areas with Burgundy stone or square terracotta floor tiles, original fireplaces as well as exposed ceiling beams, while some of its original windows contain exceptional stained glass pieces, which depict scenes from the Middle Ages. Extending on from this initial building, a double-height vaulted dining room with a fireplace provides access to the professional kitchens as well as the caretaker's accommodations.Expanded between the 15th and 16th centuries, the farm's current aspect is a harmonious mlange of robust medieval architecture combined with the elegance of later centuries. Currently used primarily for accommodations, the more 'recent' wings include approximately forty bedrooms and individual shower rooms. Tested by time, it should be noted that the property does require some special attention so that its illustrious history can be continued on for future generations.