Château de Saint-Izaire, Saint-Izaire, France

The Château de Saint-Izaire is a 14th-century episcopal castle. It is maintained by an association known as Vie et Château (Life and Castle), who have created a mini museum on the premises to record the history of the castle and the inhabitants of the village of Saint-Izaire.

The castle is a massive quadrangular red stone building that shelters the town hall of the village of Saint-Izaire. The structure is supported by a keep-tower in the southern wing (partially demolished since the 19th century). This keep contains mural frescoes dating from the 14th century, and the ceiling in the room of the bishops in the Baroque style of the 17th century.

The castle was built by Guillaume Rotlindes, ancestor of the current Rollinde de Beaumont. It was intended as a gift to the Abbey of Vabres, close to the commune of Saint-Affrique: the deed attesting the gift is preserved to the present day. The castle was often used as a summer residence by the abbey. When the cathedral and palace of Vabres were razed in the wars of religion, the castle was used by refugees from the abbey.

The Château de Saint-Izaire is one of a group of 23 castles in Aveyron who have joined together to provide a tourist itinerary as the Route des Seigneurs du Rouergue.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

jean marc Gautier (2 years ago)
Nice place, shaded parking Dead village, no one on the streets in August The castle, is in fact not a defense castle, but a summer residence of the bishops The lady at the reception will explain (very well) the history of this heritage

pascal bedu (2 years ago)
Very beautiful village. The castle is a great discovery, a nice, very simple motorhome area, but everything is there. Two nights spent on site in peace and at the water's edge. Very welcoming and fair price

Julien Delacour (2 years ago)
The castle and the site with its church could be magnificent. Unfortunately the village was very dirty despite the waste bag dispensers. Few flowers, no entertainment, church closed. In addition, we have come across many stray kittens in sad condition... which always hurts the heart. How sad. It's really a pity.

Alain Fons (2 years ago)
Beautiful monument from the outside. the 14th century chapel still retains its period wall and ceiling paintings, but in poor condition.

Helene Mallet (2 years ago)
The exterior is nice with its red color and different from the others. On the other hand, the interior, especially on the top floor, is rather dilapidated or even dangerous? They have tried to highlight some rooms but it lacks renovation. A positive point: the exhibition on archery and the reception.

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