Stéphane Bern, the leading figure of French heritage, has embarked on an incredible adventure by restoring the Royal and Military College of Thiron-Gardais. This project began when Bern purchased the historical monument classified as part of France's heritage back in February 2013. Following its initial purchase, the magnificent site was identified as being desperately in need of restoration.
January 2024 saw the release of the documentary detailing the renovation process, which has completely changed Bern's life. The project was initiated after Albéric de Montgolfier, President of the Eure-et-Loir department, persuaded Bern to revitalize the deteriorated college and its forgotten history. Bern reminisces about his first visit. “It was on a gray and sad December morning... We could have filmed there Hitchcock's Birds,” he recalled, demonstrating his immediate connection to the location. Though he expresses excitement, he admits he was unaware of the extensive work required to restore the site.
Originally known for the Abbey of the Holy Trinity of Thiron, established in 1114, the site evolved over the centuries. By the 1630s, Henri de Bourbon-Verneuil—the illegitimate son of King Henry IV of France—founded the classical education college here, which was later transformed, thanks to Louis XVI, to become the Royal and Military College in 1776.
Construction and restoration efforts began officially in November 2014, spanning across two grueling years. During this period, nearly seventy workers engaged tirelessly each day to restore the college to its former glory. Bern's philosophy against modern materials makes his undertaking both arduous and expensive: "I went deeply in debt until the end of my days," he confessed, exemplifying the financial burden he willingly accepted to protect this heritage.
During the restoration, workers faced numerous challenges caused by decay, mold, and the general wear of the building. A significant part of the renovation focused on updating the college's medieval roof architecture, which required precise craftsmanship to preserve its traditional design. Bern remarked on this commitment to sustainability, stating, "Keep as much as possible; don’t throw things away; heritage is sustainable development.”
Beyond restoring the building, Bern has seamlessly integrated his new life within the college itself. He now resides there permanently, embracing both the history and the community surrounding it. “We are super happy here, and the more I live here with Stéphane, the more it’s the osmosis,” shared his partner, illustrating Bern’s deep connection to the site and the life he has created with him.
To commemorate the college's rich past and encourage community involvement, Bern inaugurated a museum on-site back in 2016. The museum aims to educate visitors about the site's historical significance and serves as part of the college's revitalized identity. Numerous events are held throughout the year, including the annual Garden Festival, which brings people together through exhibitions, workshops, and activities, fostering appreciation for the college’s storied past.
With guided tours presented each summer, the Royal and Military College of Thiron-Gardais has transformed from mere ruins to a vibrant cultural hub. Viewers can gain insight on this remarkable renovation through the documentary titled "The Royal College of Thiron-Gardais: Stéphane Bern's New Life," airing on December 18, 2024. This program encaptures the extraordinary heritage saved from obscurity and highlights the dedication of Bern and his team during this extensive project.
