Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Grizac, located in the commune of Pont-de-Montvert - South Mount Lozère in Lozère, was built in the 13th century by Guillaume Grimoard, a peasant knight. This status allowed him to build such a building. His wife, Amphelisee de Montferrand, gave birth to their six children, including William, future Pope Urban V, born in 1310. The castle, a private property, now houses an exhibition dedicated to this beatified pope.

In the 14th century Grizac was erected as a marquisat, and most of its medieval construction dates from this period, with probable enlargements in the 15th century. Abandoned at the end of the 15th century, the castle underwent major transformations between the 17th and 19th centuries, becoming an agricultural farm and even a communal school. Current remains include a dungeon, a partially collapsed central body, and agricultural buildings.

On December 21, 1984, the dungeon and the house were classified as historical monuments, while the outbuildings were registered. The castle was restored in the 20th century by Renaud Mouchet de Battefort de Laubespin and his wife Arlette de Garnier des Garets, who transformed the ruins into a habitable home. Today he belongs to their daughter, Maria Gilda Mouchet de Battefort de Laubespin, married to Louis d'Arlot de Cumond.

The site retains traces of its original defensive devices and hosts a permanent exhibition on Urban V, highlighting its historical and religious importance. The castle is located between the Cevennes and Mount Lozère, in the former province of Gevaudan, now integrated with Occitanie.

External links