Photo by Daniel Villafruela

This wider angle shot shows the location of the castle above the river Loire and the village of the same name at the bottom of the castle.

The first testimony of a stone-built castle in this location dates back to the 11th century, though earlier fortifications in this spot are likely. The castle was of relatively low strategic importance and thus mostly served as a residence for various local noble families. It was sold in the 17th century and the new owners lamented its “pitiful state”. They renovated it, but left most of the medieval buildings intact. Though it changed hands several times afterwards and its original furniture was sold, it remains one of the most well-preserved medieval castle in the upper Loire valley.