Chateau de Turenne, Limousin Travel Guide

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Explore a medieval fortress in one of France's most beautiful villages, with stunning views and a rich history to discover.

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Chateau de Turenne

Perched atop a dramatic hill in the Corrèze region of France, the Château de Turenne stands as a powerful reminder of the area's rich medieval past. Explore the castle's remains, including the César and Trésor towers, and wander through its beautiful hanging gardens while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

A brief summary to Chateau de Turenne

170 rue des officiers, Turenne, 19500, FR
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Monday 10:30 am-7:30 pm
Tuesday 10:30 am-7:30 pm
Wednesday 10:30 am-7:30 pm
Thursday 10:30 am-7:30 pm
Friday 10:30 am-7:30 pm
Saturday 10:30 am-7:30 pm
Sunday 10:30 am-7:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chateau de Turenne.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the village and castle grounds involve steep inclines and stairs.
Visit during the summer months to enjoy the 'Musicales de Turenne' series and other special events.
Take advantage of the self-guided tour app to learn about the castle's history and explore its features.
Arrive early to secure parking at the base of the village, as spaces are limited.
Consider taking the 'petit train' from the village entrance to the castle gates to avoid a steep walk.

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Explore Chateau de Turenne on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Chateau de Turenne, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the village entrance, follow the main street uphill towards the castle. The path is steep and winding, passing through the picturesque streets of Turenne. Allow 10-15 minutes to reach the castle gates. Note that the route is not fully accessible for those with mobility issues.
Public Transport

From Brive-la-Gaillarde, take the local bus to Turenne. The bus will drop you off near the tourist office at the entrance of the village. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the castle. Bus tickets cost approximately €2.
Petit Train

During peak season, a 'petit train' (small tourist train) operates from the village entrance to the castle gates. This is a convenient option for those who prefer not to walk uphill. A ticket for the 'petit train' costs around €3, and you will receive a €1 discount on your castle entrance ticket upon presentation of the train ticket.

Discover more about Chateau de Turenne

The Château de Turenne, located in one of France's most beautiful villages, offers a captivating journey through a thousand years of history. The castle's origins trace back to the 8th century, with the first mention of the 'castrum' of Turenne in 767. For centuries, it served as the heart of the Viscounty of Turenne, a virtually independent feudal state within the Kingdom of France. The Viscounts held sovereign authority, minting their own coins, raising armies, and administering justice.Over the centuries, the castle was owned by several powerful families, including the Comborns, Comminges, and La Tour d'Auvergne. The Viscounty's strategic location on major trade and pilgrimage routes contributed to its wealth and importance. In 1738, the Viscounty was sold to King Louis XV, ending its remarkable autonomy. To diminish its power, Louis XV ordered the partial dismantling of the castle, leaving only the imposing César and Trésor towers.Today, visitors can explore the castle's remains, including the 13th-century César Tower and the 14th-century Trésor Tower. Climb the spiral staircase inside the César Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley. Wander through the hanging gardens, created in 1920, which replaced the former medieval courtyard. The gardens blend French formal designs with English-style parterres, creating a serene oasis. The castle also hosts various events throughout the year, including live music series and historical reenactments.