Château de Commarque: A Medieval Fortress with Prehistoric Roots

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Discover a medieval fortress with prehistoric secrets in the heart of Dordogne's Vézère Valley. History, architecture, and stunning views await!

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Commarque Castle

Explore the ruins of Château de Commarque, a medieval castle in the Dordogne region of France, built to protect the Benedictine abbey of Sarlat in the 12th century. Discover its rich history, from its origins as a simple wooden tower to its expansion into a stone fortress, and explore the prehistoric cave art hidden beneath its walls.

A brief summary to Commarque Castle

Route du Château de Commarque, Les Eyzies, 24620, FR
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Monday 10 am-7:30 pm
Tuesday 10 am-7:30 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-7:30 pm
Friday 10 am-7:30 pm
Saturday 10 am-7:30 pm
Sunday 10 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes as the site is located on a cliff and involves walking along uneven paths.
During French school holidays and public holidays, take advantage of the guided tours included in the entry ticket.
Bring a baby carrier for young children, as the site is not easily accessible with strollers.
Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
Consider visiting during special events or reenactments for a more immersive experience.

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Getting There

Driving

If driving, head towards Les Eyzies from any location in Dordogne. From Sarlat-la-Canéda, take the D47 towards Les Eyzies. Continue on D47 until you reach Route de la Bachellerie, then merge onto D706. Follow the signs for Les Eyzies. Upon arrival at Les Eyzies, look for the signs directing you to Commarque Castle. The castle is located approximately 5 km from the town center. There are three car parks available, including one for people with reduced mobility. From the main parking area, it is a 600m walk along a shaded path to reach the castle. Parking is free.
Public Transport

To reach Commarque Castle via public transport, take a train from Bordeaux or Sarlat-la-Canéda to Les Eyzies. Train tickets can be purchased at the station or online. From Périgueux to Les Eyzies, train tickets cost approximately €6-€15. Once you arrive at Les Eyzies train station, you can either walk to the castle (approximately 5 km, taking about 1 hour) or take a local taxi. Taxi fares may vary, but expect to pay around €15-€20 for the short ride.

Discover more about Commarque Castle

Château de Commarque, a remarkable medieval castle nestled in the heart of the Périgord Noir, offers a captivating journey through time. Located in the Vézère Valley, a region recognized for its cultural and historical significance, the castle's origins trace back to the 12th century when it was established to safeguard the Benedictine abbey of Sarlat.Initially a simple wooden tower, the site evolved into a complex castrum, with a stone keep replacing the original structure. Over the centuries, it was shared by several noble families, each adding their own fortified dwellings. The castle witnessed conflicts such as the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion, eventually falling into disrepair and being abandoned by the 18th century.In 1972, Hubert de Commarque, a direct descendant of the Commarque lineage, purchased the overgrown site and began its restoration. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, climb the 30-meter tower for panoramic views, and discover the prehistoric caves beneath the castle, which contain engravings dating back thousands of years. The cave's most famous feature is the Cheval de Commarque, a life-sized horse sculpted in bas-relief. While the prehistoric cave is closed to the public to protect the ancient artwork, visitors can learn about it through exhibitions.The site offers a range of activities, including guided tours, audio guides narrated by Guillaume Gallienne, workshops, and games. Visitors are encouraged to wear sturdy walking shoes due to the uneven paths.