Rising on top of a vertiginous cliff of 150m high, the castle of Beynac is a medieval citadel which dominates all the Périgord. This symbol of the rivalry between the English and the French is today one of the best preserved fortified castles in France.
Overlooking one of the most beautiful villages in France, the castle of Beynac is a unique site truly emblematic of the feudal heritage. The setting for some fifteen period films including Fanfan la Tulipe, Les Visiteurs and Luc Besson's Joan of Arc, it invites its visitors to experience an extraordinary journey through time.
Built from the 12th century by the first de Beynac family, it is an extremely strategic place thanks to its high position, which allows it to control the river and roadways that surround it. This exceptional location enabled the Lords of Beynac to quickly acquire considerable financial power: anyone wishing to cross the river and any boat using it had to pay a passage tax. In 1152, Beynac, as well as its entire region, became English territory after the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II Plantagenet.
Their son, Richard the Lionheart, took possession of the fortress in 1189. He died ten years later not far from there, in Châlus-Chabrol, after having received a crossbow tile in his shoulder, previously soaked in manure. For 9 centuries, this fortress has dominated the Dordogne and watches over the whole region thanks to an extraordinary 360° panorama that you can never get tired of.
After the extinction of the de Beynac family in 1811, the castle sank into oblivion. The various owners who occupy it forsake this invaluable heritage. It is said that unofficial visits are organised by amateur guides who are obliged to carry umbrellas to protect themselves from falling rocks.
It is only from 1962 that Beynac is reborn from its ashes. A certain Lucien Grossot then bought the fortress at auction and became involved body and soul in its restoration. Thanks to him and his successors, we can see the fortress as the lords of Beynac knew it.
Today, the castle belongs to Alberic de Montgolfier and his wife Audrey. For her, "every visitor must experience a real journey through time".
Never attacked, this unique fortress has watched over the Dordogne for 9 centuries and is an incredible testimony of medieval architecture. In particular, these walls have survived the greatest battles of the Hundred Years' War, at a time when the Périgord, with its location on the border of the enemy kingdoms of France and England, was a strategic territory.
All practical information and history of the castle.
Berengère for Comme des Français
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