The Aubéry Castle, formerly known as Maison Rivail, is a construction dating from the early 20th century. It belonged to Eugène Aubéry (1879–1942). Eugène Aubéry was a white man of modest origins. His marriage to Berthe Hayot, daughter of Gabriel Hayot, a major landowner, propelled him into the highest economic circles.
He first served as administrator of the central factory of Lareinty and later became General Councillor of Lamentin.
Built between 1928 and 1931, the four‑story castle, with its 30 rooms, reflects the status of its wealthy landowner. To enhance the prestige of the building, architects Balesco and Volpi favored a neoclassical style, as evidenced by the porch leading to a double circular staircase, whose mosaic bears the initials of the owner, “AE, year 1930.”
Eugène Aubéry was implicated in the assassination of André Aliker on January 12, 1934, of which he was very likely the instigator. In 1942, upon his death, his wife and eight children left Maison Rivail.
The castle then became the property of the General Council of Martinique. In 1954, it housed the École Normale and later the agricultural school.
Abandoned thereafter, it was sold for a symbolic one franc to the municipality of Ducos in 1987. The building has been protected as a Historic Monument since December 31, 1992.
As its materials deteriorated under the effects of the climate, restoration was necessary to return the edifice to its former glory.
It is located in the Croix-Rivail district, near the old François road (RN6). It is not currently open to visitors due to ongoing works.