Chateau de Castelnaud, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
Château dedicated to the art of warfare in the Middle Ages
The 12th century Château de Castelnaud stands high over the Dordogne valley, with magnificent views of the Châteaux of Beynac, Jardins de Marqueyssac and the medieval village of La Roque-Gageac.
This one-time fortress is now given over entirely to displaying the art of warfare in the Middle Ages. Inside, it has a unique private collection of arms and armour, as well as furniture from the period. Outside, you will find reconstructions of war machines, such as siege catapults and giant crossbows, in actual size. These are reinforced by models and videos, explaining a medieval château's different methods of attack and defence.
Guided tours are available in French, English and Spanish. These are aimed at adults and last around 45 minutes.
Worth knowing
You can buy a special price twin ticket to visit both the gardens and nearby Jardins de Marqueyssac.
Watch out for
The castle’s configuration and its many narrow stairways make access to the museum’s rooms difficult for people with reduced mobility. However, access to the lower courtyard, the viewing point and the barbican is possible.
Moving about with prams and pushchairs inside the castle as well as outside is difficult; it is strongly recommended to leave them in the designated space at the castle’s entrance.
Animals are allowed within the castle on a leash.
Visitor comments
- "A fabulous Chateau. Packed with history, battles and the hard times of the Middle Ages. Wonderful views from the top across the Dordogne river and the surrounding areas. Well worth a visit." - Trip Advisor
- "The castle is at the top of a cliff, surrounded by pretty houses, restaurants and shops. It is a bit of a trek up the steep footpath, but well worth the effort. The castle contains some really good displays, interactive activities and models." - Trip Advisor
- "Quite a steep walk but well worth it. (Offers a combined ticket with Jardins de Marqueyssac also worth a visit!) very steep steps inside the chateau. Lots to see. Check the day they fire a trebuchet!" - Trip Advisor
When to come
The gardens are open all year. In summer, April, May, June and September they are open from 10:00 until 19:00. During July and August from 09:00 until 20:00. Also in July and August they have a 'mystery show' on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesday between 20:15 and 22:00.
In February, March, October and until mid-November the gardens are open from 10:00 until 18:00. From mid-November until the end of January the gardens open only in the afternoons from 14:00 to 17:00.
