From an architectural point of view, the castles of Dordogne Périgord have the particularity of harmoniously combining a great diversity of styles due to the successive periods of construction. In total, 44 of them are included in the inventory of Historic Monuments and can be visited.
NEWS ABOUT CASTLES AND OPENINGS TO THE PUBLIC
Tiregand Castle, between research and wine tourism visit
This 18th and 19th century gem, a testament to Belle Époque architecture, opens its doors to families for original tours inspired by the game Cluedo. . This is an immersive tour in the world of Arsène Lupin. Visitors can visit part of the mansion and the exterior, through an invented story about the famous “gentleman cambrioleur” (gentleman thief). More than thirteen actors take turns to perform this dramatised story. After visiting the historic building, continue your visit to the château’s vineyards and cellars, to discover the precious nectar (a well-structured and highly renowned red wine with the Pécharmant appellation of origin).
CASTLES WELL WORTH A VISIT
Milandes Castle, former property of Josefine Baker
Artist, spy, resistance fighter, anti-racist activist, black… the Franco-American magazine starlet was the most famous owner of the Château des Milandes from 1947 to 1968. In 2021, she was admitted to the Pantheon in Paris. A magnificent tribute to this exceptional woman who showed great commitment to the service of France. This historic site, listed as a “Maison des Illustres” (Houses of the Illustrious), houses a museum of memories. In 2022, the inauguration of the “dressing room”, a room commemorating her commitment, will enrich the collections dedicated to the artist.
The Castle of Marzac, in Tursac
After purchasing the Château de Bridoire or “Games Castle” in Ribagnac (a site designed for children), the Guyot family became the new owners of the Château de Marzac. Inside this jewel from the Renaissance period (15th - 17th century), you will discover a life-size escape game on the theme of labyrinths. Located in an exceptional natural setting, this historic site also offers a panoramic terrace, a French garden and a monumental dovecote.
The Fortress of the Roque Gageac, in the Roque Gageac
The Fortress of La Roque Gageac also offers exceptional views. Accessible by a staircase situated on a vertiginous cliff, this fortress houses a historical exhibition.
Reignac Fortified House, in Tursac
A noble residence for over 700 years, the Maison Fort de Reignac in Tursac is the most unusual castle in the Périgord. Preserved in an exceptional state and entirely decorated with period furniture, it is the only completely intact “cliff castle” type monument in France (troglodyte castle from the 14th century). In the 12th century, the use of stone became widespread.
Feudal Fortress of Beynac and Medieval Castle of Castelnaud
These buildings are based on the castral model, with characteristic architectural elements that can be admired in particular in the feudal fortress of Beynac built on a rocky promontory overlooking the Dordogne Valley or in the medieval castle of Castelnaud, located opposite Beynac, its eternal rival. We move from the Middle Ages to the modern era with the art of the Italian Renaissance. One of the main characteristics of this art is the richness of its ornamentation. In 2022, the Castle of Castelnaud is home to a new machine: "A Couillard". It is the most efficient war machine of its time!
Monbazillac Castle
The Château de Monbazillac (16th century) features a unique and original architecture, a mix of medieval defensive systems and refined Renaissance details. Located in the heart of a prestigious vineyard bearing its name, it has been owned by the Monbazillac wineries since 1960. In 2022, a fun and immersive setting will be created for a new experience: descend into the cellars of the castle to solve the riddles with your family and recover the lost recipe for grape juice!
Bourdeilles Castle
Another example is the Château de Bourdeilles , or rather the Châteaux of Bourdeilles (medieval fortress, Renaissance castle and ramparts), seat of one of the four baronies of Périgord, which stand on a limestone promontory, bathed by the waters of the Dronne.
Hautfort Castle
In the 17th and 18th centuries, French art imposed its “rationalism” on the world and a new style emerged: classical art. Although Hautefort Castle is one of the few examples of classical architecture in the Périgord, it is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious castles in the south-west of France.
By France.fr
El equipo editorial de France.fr sigue de cerca las tendencias y noticias del destino para mostrarte una Francia que innova y renueva sus tradiciones. Nuestra pasión es contar historias y descubrir los talentos que te inspirarán a explorar nuestros territorios.