The castle served as a filming location for the 1970s movie 'La Vieille Fille'.
It was built during the transition period between the feudal fortress style and the comfort-oriented residential château.
The museum collection includes over 15,000 objects related to Norman daily life.
The grand staircase inside retains original decorative elements typical of the early Renaissance.
The castle is surrounded by an expansive park that covers approximately 7 hectares.
The interior contains a notable collection of 'armoires normandes', which are oversized, highly ornate wardrobes unique to the region.
The building was constructed using local limestone and flint, materials characteristic of the Caux plateau landscape.
Castle Martainville is a 16th-century Renaissance castle located in the Normandy region, currently housing the Museum of Traditions and Norman Arts. The structure features a distinctive white stone facade, corner towers with pepper-pot roofs, and a moat that reflects the architecture. It was commissioned by Jacques Le Pelletier, a wealthy merchant from Rouen, and completed around 1535. The museum displays one of the largest collections of regional furniture, textiles, and domestic tools in France. Visitors can explore furnished period rooms that showcase 18th and 19th-century Norman rural life. The estate includes a walled garden and an orchard containing rare local apple varieties. The site is designated as a Monument Historique, preserving its original architectural integrity. The interior displays highlight the evolution of Norman crafts, including intricate woodworking and local pottery styles.
From the bridge crossing the moat, looking back at the main facade to capture the reflection and the symmetrical Renaissance architecture.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding park to see the heritage orchard.
Check the museum's temporary exhibition schedule online before arriving, as they frequently rotate displays on local crafts.
Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the gravel paths and historical flooring inside.
Do not expect a guided tour in English for every room; it is best to use the provided visitor guidebooks or digital resources.
Closed on Tuesdays. Open daily during the peak summer season but follows a reduced schedule during winter months.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the exhibition halls and refrain from touching the antique furniture or artifacts.
