Castelnaud Castle, the castle that dominates the Dordogne valley!

In the early 13th century, Bernard de Casnac, the lord of the manor, held much power in the region. However, he was also a supporter of the Cathar faith, also known as Albigensian, and showed extreme cruelty towards Catholics. In 1214, the renowned knight Simon de Montfort led a crusade against the Albigensians. Because of Bernard de Casnac's actions, he captured the Castelnaud castle and held it for a couple of months. Nevertheless, in 1215, Bernard de Casnac regained possession of his property, only to see it burned down a few months later under the order of the Archbishop of Bordeaux. Of this fire only a few stones remained intact. Then, the castle was reconstructed, but in 1337, the Hundred Years' War erupted between France and England. During this conflict, the castle sided with the English. It thrived as a significant power in Périgord, much like Beynac Castle, its neighbouring rival. The barons of Beynac were supporters of the French. Over the course of just over a century, the castle changed hands seven times.

After the French emerged victorious in the war, the Caumonts reclaimed their property and the castle was rebuilt once again. Castelnaud continued to serve as the central hub of the seigneury and adapted to the military practices of the time, as evidenced by the artillery tower constructed in 1520.

In the 16th century, the Caumonts embraced the Protestant faith. Geoffroy de Vivans, a Huguenot captain born at Castelnaud castle, fiercely defended the town and fought against the Catholics, earning a fearsome reputation throughout the region. Because of this, Castelnaud remained untouched during the Wars of Religion. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Caumonts enjoyed great prosperity and received numerous prestigious honours, gradually forgetting about their old castle in Périgord, which was too distant from the royal court. Following the French Revolution, the site fell into disrepair, overrun by vegetation and becoming a neglected relic.

The castle was even used as a quarry, which didn’t help improve matters. In 1832, when river transportation and the development of the village of Castelnaud necessitated the construction of a port slipway, masons found it more convenient to dismantle stones from the southern section of the castle rather than cutting them to size. In 1966, the castle was classified as a Historic Monument upon the request of its new owners, Philippe and Véronique Rossillon.

Today, the castle houses the Museum of War in the Middle Ages. Inside there are reconstructed war machines adorning the bastion of the castle. This museum generally showcases a variety of weaponry, including spears, swords, crossbows, and much more.

Embark on a self-guided tour that lasts approximately one hour, and that is enriched with informative signage, interactive terminals, captivating audiovisual presentations, and intricate models. Immerse yourself in the museum experience and explore a vast assortment of genuine weapons and armour, boasting a collection of over 250 items sourced from various regions across Europe.

This self-paced visit allows you to fully absorb the ambiance of the castle, from the bustling kitchen to the scenic parapet walk. As you venture outside, marvel at the faithful recreations of formidable medieval siege machines such as the mangonel, trebuchet, bombard, and more.

To conclude your journey in this authentic castle, enjoy a stroll through the enchanting medieval garden, providing a delightful ending to your exploration of the site.

Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is a 12th century village that is undoubtedly one of France's most beautiful. As you make your way up the steep, narrow streets, you'll come across old Périgord houses covered in stone slabs, with their distinctive architecture. Also, the Church of Saint-Michel-Archange is a must see in Castelnaud. The church is dedicated to Saint-Michel, who chased away the angel Lucifer and brought down the Dragon of the Apocalypse. These references within the church make it a unique place to discover.

Near the village, in an 18th-century farmhouse, come and discover the Walnut Eco-Museum, surrounded by a 7-hectare organic walnut grove. Discover the cultivation of walnuts and walnut trees in Périgord!

• Visitors can purchase tickets online or directly buy them at the desk to access the castle.
• The castle is open all year round, daily. Last admission is one hour before closing time.
• The prices depend on the peak and off-season. The peak season starts on April 1st and ends on November 12th. During peak season the prices for adults is 12,90€, the price for youths (10 to 17) is 6,5€ and castle entry for children under 10 is free. The off season starts on November 13th and ends on March 31st. During off season, the prices for adults is 11,90€, the price for youths (10 to 17) is 6€ and castle entry for children under 10 is free.
• The Castle’s visit is a self-guided tour with a free visit booklet (available in French, English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Catalan, Dutch, Chinese, Russian and Hebrew.)
• For persons with reduced mobility, the castle’s configuration and its many narrow stairways make access to the museum’s rooms difficult. However, access to the lower courtyard, the viewing point and the barbican is possible. Moving about with prams and pushchairs inside the castle as well as outside is difficult; it is strongly recommended to leave them in the designated space at the castle’s entrance.
• Dogs are admitted when leashed.

By car: - The castle is 2h30 away from Toulouse, Bordeaux and Limoges - For the A20 highway: Souillac exit - For the highway A89 : Sarlat-la-Canéda exit - Pay municipal parking lots a 3-minute walk from the castle. - Free parking lot by the Dordogne river (15 minutes walk).

By train: - The nearest train station is Sarlat (13 km). Buy tickets here.