“The Château de Beynac”: a movie set full of history

Built in the 12th century by the Lords of Beynac, the castle stands on a rocky outcrop, naturally well protected from potential attackers. Its location, on a traffic route, also allows it to control the waterways and land routes.

The Lords asked transporters using the Dordogne or the road to pay a very high toll, which contributed to their fortune. During the Hundred Years' War, the castle became a real stronghold, while at the foot of the Dordogne, stood a natural border between France and England.

Visiting the castle is a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to learn about the exciting history of a turbulent period. Walking through the castle, you’ll find yourself immediately transported back in time. This is why a number of period films have been shot at this location. Try to spot the scenes in Joan of Arc (1999) by Luc Besson or, more recently, in Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel (2021)  that were filmed there.

The Château de Beynac has been listed as a “Historic Monument” by the French Ministry of Culture since 1944, and is therefore an integral part of the country’s heritage.

To get a proper sense of the castle’s history, it’s important to understand how it evolved through the years. At first, the majestic fortress was nothing more than a small wooden keep. It wasn’t until the 12th century that the structure was transformed into a high stone fortified tower. Something that we can still see today. 

Opposite the castle you can admire the picturesque view of the Dordogne river and the Périgord. When entering the castle you will enter directly into  the  “Salle des Gardes” (Guard’s room), the first extension made to the primitive keep. Because of its wide door, rustic floors and size all suggest that visitors would enter on horseback; the Lord could enter into his castle without setting a foot on the ground! 

In the 13th century, another addition was made to the castle: the spur building. It was added to the Château de Beynac, with a dwelling with wider, decorated geminated bays, eventually allowing for more sunlight to pour in. The kitchen and the Oratory Tower that you can see during the visit also date from this period. 

Wandering around the castle, you will end up on the terrace of the spur. This magnificent terrace is where you can see the castle merging with the valley. For most visitors, this is one of the highlights of the visit, one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the Périgord.

Evolving over time, the splendid “Salle des Etats” (State Room) dates back to the 15th century. This room with its vaulted ceiling is a meeting place for the great Lords of Périgord of the time. When finishing your visit, you will see a barbican, an advanced military fortification intended to drive out the enemy at the castle gates. It was added in the 19th century, and was not representative of the needs of the 19th century but its purpose was rather figurative.

Beynac-et-Cazenac is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. The village stands between the stunning Dordogne river and Beynac Castle on its mountainous peak. As you explore the village, let yourself be transported  back to medieval times and have a full immersion in this era. The village offers beautiful 360 panoramas of the Perigord. Visiting Beynac-et-Cazenac in peak season is an undeniably joyful experience. 

The village is built on a rocky escarpment and offers charming streets, beautiful architecture, and an incredible place to learn more about the history of France. The charming village also attracts people to come enjoy the craftsmanship, the quaint little shops, and the delicious restaurants.

The best, if not only option is by car: 

• The castle is 10 minutes away from the city of Saint Cyprien. 
• Parking is available 1 minute away from the entry of the Beynac Castle or at the bottom of the village of Beynac-et-Cazenac. From the bottom of the village you need to climb approximately 20 minutes to get to Beynac Castle.