Vaux le Vicomte’s stables and outbuildings, as seen from the recently opened tower at the 17th century chateau, about 35 miles southeast of Paris. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
The plane tree allee at Vaux le Vicomte is a registered historic monument in itself. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
The entrance of Vaux le Vicomte, designed by Louis le Vau. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
A salon, restored to its original finery. Louis XIV imprisoned owner Nicholas Fouquet and confiscated his possessions. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
The classic French garden, one of the first of its kind, was designed by André le Nôtre. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
Children visit the chateau in 17th century costume. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
