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Château de Château-l'Évêque: A Bishop's Resplendent Retreat

Discover the Château de Château-l'Évêque: A historic castle blending medieval fortifications with Renaissance elegance, once home to bishops and couturiers.

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The Château de Château-l'Évêque, dating back to the 10th century, served as the favored residence of the Bishops of Périgueux. Fortified in 1347 and remodeled through the Renaissance, it boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. Today, it is a private residence open for tours, showcasing its tumultuous past and beautiful grounds.

A brief summary to Château de Château-l'Évêque

Local tips

  • Call ahead to schedule a guided tour with the owner for a more personalized experience.
  • Explore the gardens to see the ongoing restoration efforts, including the hydrangeas and English roses.
  • Check the official website for seasonal hours and special events.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Périgueux, take the D5 towards Château-l'Évêque. The château is located in the center of the village. Note that there is no private parking at the castle, but public parking is available on the street. Be mindful of local residents when parking. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Périgueux, take the Télobus T14 line, which serves Château-l'Évêque with a taxi on demand service. From the bus stop in Château-l'Évêque, the château is a short walk into the center of the village. Contact Télobus for schedules and booking information. A single ticket should cost around €2.

  • Walking

    From the Château-l'Évêque train station, walk north along the D5 (Rue de la Gare), turn left onto Rue du Château. The chateau will be on your left. The walk is approximately 500m and should take less than 10 minutes.

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Discover more about Château de Château-l'Évêque

Nestled in the heart of the Dordogne, the Château de Château-l'Évêque stands as a testament to centuries of French history and architectural evolution. Originally constructed in the 10th century, the site gained prominence in 1347 when Bishop Adhémar de Neuville of Périgueux erected two fortresses to defend the northern approach to Périgueux during the Hundred Years’ War. These fortresses were later remodeled and connected in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, resulting in the magnificent structure seen today. For centuries, the château served as the primary residence of the Bishops of Périgueux, a seat of religious power that extended throughout Périgord. Its strategic location made it a key defensive point, witnessing numerous conflicts and sieges throughout its history. The château's architecture reflects its dual purpose as both a fortress and a luxurious residence, blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. Visitors can explore the remnants of the 16th-century chapel, the guard room, and admire the Renaissance facade adorned with meticulously crafted sundials. In 1600, Saint Vincent de Paul was ordained as a priest in the château's chapel. During the interwar period (1923-1936), the château was owned by Jenny Sacerdote, a famous Parisian couturier, who hosted lavish receptions and created a renowned rose garden. Although the rose garden was destroyed in 1940, the current owner, Gérard de Colombières, is restoring the grounds, including a sanctuary for hydrangeas and English roses. Today, the Château de Château-l'Évêque is a private residence that welcomes visitors for guided tours. The 17-hectare park features an English garden, an Italian garden, and a 300-meter bridle path, offering a tranquil escape.

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