La Maison Dovalle was built in the early 1500s and acquired by the Dovalle family in the late 1700s. Around 1800 the entire seven-member family was poisoned by a maid employed by a cousin who was also the mayor of a neighboring town. Two family members died as a result, and both the mayor and maid were convicted and sent to prison. Every summer the story is re-enacted by the locals in front of Maison Dovalle, an event that attracts many history buffs, romantics, and tourists.
History/ Village
Charles Dovalle (1807 -1829)
The Poetic Legacy of Charles Dovalle
Born on June 23, 1807, in the charming manor of Montreuil-Bellay, Charles Dovalle was a poet whose life and work remain steeped in romance and tragedy. From his studies in Saumur and the Faculty of Law in Poitiers, his passion for writing flourished. Publishing under the pen name Pauline A., Dovalle captivated readers with his heartfelt poetry.
Drawn to Paris to pursue fame, he supported himself by writing for literary publications and critiquing theater. One fiery review provoked the ire of Mr. Mirra, director of the Variety Theatre, leading to a duel that would tragically end Dovalle’s life on November 30, 1829.
In a poignant twist, the manuscript of poems Dovalle carried that day was pierced by the fatal bullet, erasing part of his final verse: “The young women ... abandoned ...” Though a publisher later filled in the words, this poetic irony left a haunting mark on his legacy.
Dovalle is buried in the Montmartre cemetery, his grave marked by a marble column, a tribute to a life of artistic passion. Writers like Victor Hugo celebrated his lyrical grace and emotional depth, though his poetry often reflected his inner conflicts—torn between neoclassical sentimentality and romantic ideology.
Decades later, in 1898, Montreuil-Bellay honored Dovalle and three other luminaries with a commemorative monument. Today, this testament to his enduring influence draws visitors to explore the village where his story began.
Charles Dovalle lived and died as a poet, his life intertwined with beauty and sorrow, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.
A Timeless Romance Reimagined
Transformation to an Inn
In the late 1990s, La Maison Dovalle began a new chapter under the loving care of the Reiley family. With a vision to blend history with modern elegance, Muriel Reiley embarked on a twelve-year transformation of the storied manor.
Central heating, modernized kitchens, and updated bedrooms and bathrooms were introduced, enhancing comfort while preserving the manor’s timeless allure. The Grand Room was thoughtfully reimagined, balancing luxury with warmth to create inviting spaces that honor the past.
Muriel’s passion for preserving the soul of La Maison Dovalle is evident in its enduring details. The spiral stone staircase, worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, remains a marvel. Majestic stone fireplaces and original wood beams continue to tell stories of the manor’s storied past.
The enchanting gardens, lovingly tended, mirror the beauty of the ages, inviting guests to stroll amidst their lush splendor. La Maison Dovalle now stands as a harmonious blend of history and romance—a place where timeless elegance meets modern charm, welcoming all who seek a truly unforgettable retreat.
