Les Belles de Dampierre, the exhibition and parade of carriages and cars at the Château de Dampierre

On Sunday, June 11, 2023, the Domaine de Dampierre will be the scene of a day dedicated to the art of coachbuilding, a French tradition that reached unprecedented heights in the 19th century. A heritage that is often overlooked, but which played a crucial role in the transition from horse to steam.

France, in the 19th century, experienced an unparalleled prosperity in the coachbuilding industry. Like furniture and decorative art objects, carriages were mainly commissioned by the aristocracy and wealthy Europeans, making France the undisputed leader in luxury production. The art of coachbuilding reached its peak just before the appearance of the automobile.

For this first edition, the event takes place in the gardens of the castle, with the ambition to become a great annual meeting around the castle of Dampierre, to celebrate the common history of the horse-drawn carriage and the first automobiles.

The Domaine de Dampierre en Yvelines is home to late 19th century carriages, a unique set of 5 carriages from the same coachbuilder Morel of Paris. This lot, witness of a prestigious order by the French aristocracy, is unique and has come to us intact in the 21st century.

Franky Mulliez, owner of the Château de Dampierre since 2018 and passionate about sports and traditional carriages, will present his collection of vehicles, enriching the experience of this day.

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The event program includes:

• From 2:30 pm: presentation to the public of the different cars
• Parade in the alleys of the gardens
• Discussions with the owners
• Carriage rides pulled by our American mules
  

For more information, visit www.domaine-dampierre.com. The Domaine de Dampierre will be open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm with an exceptional rate of 5€, and free for children under 6 years old.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to relive history and discover the art of horse and steam carriage making. Come celebrate with us the inauguration of this annual event and enjoy a memorable day at the Domaine de Dampierre.