Château de Sigournais, Sigournais, France

The lordship of Sigournais has existed since at least 1050. It was then the property of Zacharie de Pouzauges, a vassal of the vicomtes de Thouars. In the 12th century, a priory dedicated to Saint-Saturnin was built within the walls of the castellum. Issues of cohabitation with the castle's inhabitants arose. Moreover, the current castle, built by Guyard de Sainte-Flayve, came into existence thanks to the relocation of the priory outside the enclosure.

Nothing remains visible from the ancient fortress of the 12th century; the foundations in the ground are located a bit further to the north, with the current castle covering a part of them.

The current castle, constructed under Guyard de Sainte-Flayve, dates from the late 15th century and has an almost pentagonal shape. This enclosure consists of curtain walls flanked by eight round towers and a large gatehouse tower. A dry moat carved into the limestone surrounds it all. The gatehouse tower serves as both a fortified entrance (gatehouse) and a main tower (keep). It consists of a large rectangular tower flanked by two round towers on each side, all crowned with a battlemented walkway on machicolations. The entrance corridor is divided into two entrances, one for carts and one for pedestrians. On the outside, a fixed bridge was extended by a cart bridge and a pedestrian drawbridge, side by side. Inside the gatehouse tower, there were two levels. On the first level, there was a guard room and a vestibule. Canon openings were arranged in the thickness of the wall. On the second level, accessible by the spiral staircase in the South flanking tower, there was a room serving both as a reception hall and as the lord's residence, separated by a wall was a chamber.

A large pentagonal courtyard was protected by walls and towers, crowned with crenellated battlements on machicolations, and probably served as a bailey (outer courtyard). Some buildings were attached to the ramparts, such as stables, kitchens, a bakery, forge, etc.

User Reviews

Anne Sophie Jacques (2 years ago)
Castle to see and especially the guided tour which is very dynamic and very friendly. Activities for children and skits in the afternoon. Hats off to the guide for her enthusiasm and her acting "play" during the little scenes... 7€/adult very good value for money.

Dominique Leviel (2 years ago)
The feudal castle of Sigournais is a beautiful monument. The guided tour is made with a guide dressed in period clothing. This visit is well commented, on this place, I learned things. For the little ones, there are nice little attractions. I recommend this visit. ?

Jicé Bes (2 years ago)
Very interesting and well-appointed small feudal castle. The small, well-restored feudal dwelling is its main feature. Also interesting exhibitions (coats of arms, Napoleon...). Entertainment and games for adults and children. Do not forget the local wine "la Folle de Sigournais"!

Aurélie Z. (2 years ago)
Very beautiful castle, full of wooden games, very interesting guided tour.

Emma Schouten (6 years ago)
I was there at opening and got the place almost to myself at first. I got a private tour with the guide, who told me the history of the castle but also little bits of information I never knew about medieval live and castles in general

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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Château de Sigournais

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