The Château de Savigny-les-Beaune is not only a splendid castle but also a museum of aircraft, racing cars (Abarth) and motorcycles near Beaune. Built in 1340 for the Duke of Eudes, the castle was dismantled in 1478 following the invasion of Burgundy by Louis XI in his conflict with Mary of Burgundy. Restored and decorated in the early 17th century by the Bouhier family, in 1689 the chateau became the property of the Migieu family, and then by marriage, of the General Count of La Loyère and his heirs, until it was purchased in 1972 by a winemaker/operator of an estate in the Côte de Beaune.
Parked in the rustic Burgundian courtyard is the world’s largest private collection of fighter jets. The collection ranges from World War II jets, to Soviet military aircraft.
Spread over 27 hectares of land, the chateau now belongs to Michel Pont, a former Abarth pilot, who inherited the impressive manor and following his passion for speed and racing has filled it with jets from all over the world. In addition to fighter jets, the castle is also home to Pont’s extensive collection of vintage cars, racing cars, helicopters, fire trucks and much more – a veritable treasure trove.
