Château de Fénelon: A Dordogne Fortress of Art and History

Perched high on a hill in Sainte-Mondane, the Château de Fénelon stands as a sentinel overlooking the Dordogne Valley. This impressive fortress, dating back to the 11th century, has been home to noble families and a refuge for Cathars. Today, it is a classified historical monument and a 'Maison des Illustres,' offering visitors a unique journey through time. The castle's architecture showcases its evolution through the centuries. The base was constructed in the 11th century, with significant fortifications added during the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion. The well-preserved defensive walls and imposing lauze stone roof, typical of the Sarladais region, are particularly striking. Inside, visitors can explore furnished interiors and collections of arms and furniture from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Château de Fénelon is also the birthplace of François de Salignac de la Mothe-Fénelon, a famous 17th-century archbishop, theologian, and writer. An exhibition within the castle pays homage to Fénelon, exploring his life and career at the court of Louis XIV. The castle has also served as a filming location for movies such as 'Ever After' and 'The Last Duel'. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley from the castle grounds. The castle is still privately owned and inhabited, and has been undergoing a program of preservation and enhancement for over thirty years.