Every year, the Journées du Patrimoine 2026 invites curious visitors to discover monuments, grand houses, gardens, or institutions that are often closed to the public. The concept is simple: give everyone the chance to better understand the history behind the façades of Paris and the Île-de-France, during a weekend dedicated to sharing and discovery.
The Manoir de Bel Ébat is fully aligned with this spirit. Nestled at the edge of the Fontainebleau Forest, this residence carries an ancient history, notably tied to royal hunts. Its name is said to derive from the « ébat » of the packs: Henry IV would have had a pavilion nearby where his hounds could rest by the springs after hunting outings. As is often the case with old tales, this origin is partly traditional, but it adds to the charm of the place’s history.
Bel Ébat takes on its current character at the end of the 19th century. It becomes the property of Auguste Durand, a renowned music publisher, and later passes to his son Jacques. Gradually, evolves into a meeting place for several of the great names in French music. Claude Debussy, Gabriel Fauré, Camille Saint-Saëns, Paul Dukas, and Maurice Ravel are said to have frequented the house to work, exchange ideas and enjoy the calm of the setting.
This musical memory is today one of the manor’s main distinctive features. A Pleyel piano, preserved on site, still recalls the close ties between and the composers of that era. In 1979, Lola Dommange, the last owner of the estate, donated the manor to the Town of Avon, on the condition that its cultural and musical history be preserved. Since then, the site has carried on this mission of transmission by hosting occasional events, exhibitions and gatherings.
The Heritage Days offer a wonderful excuse to step through its gates, discover its history, and gain a deeper understanding of the discreet yet important role it has played in the cultural life of Seine-et-Marne.
Guided Tour of Bel-Ebat Manor
Especially for European Heritage Days, teenagers from Avon will lead interpretive sessions in the manor as part of the Heritage Ambassadors program, run in partnership with the Youth Center, on Sunday, September 20, with tour departures at 2:00 PM, 2:45 PM, 3:30 PM and 4:15 PM.
Guided tours are also offered to the public on Saturday, September 19 at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM (duration: 30 minutes).
The manor is open for self-guided visits during its opening hours.
Participation conditions: Stairs to climb up and down - Reservation required | Free - patrimoine@avon77.com
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00 to 16:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:00 to 17:00
Exhibition "Images of the Republic — Students' Voices"
An exhibition of a selection of posters and artifacts from the "Images of the Republic" collection, created by Year 9 students in the Culture and Memory class at Avon Middle School.
Terms of participation: Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, 19 September 2026, 10:00–16:00 | Sunday, 20 September 2026, 10:00–17:00
AMC to perform at Bel-Ebat
Students and teachers from Avon Music and Culture are giving a recital at the Bel-Ebat Manor.
Terms of participation: Free admission - No reservation required
Timings: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Bel Ébat Manor
manoir de bel ébat avon
77210 Avon
Route planner
Official website
www.avon77.com
