Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Benge Castle is a mansion located in Collonges-la-Rouge, in the department of Corrèze, New Aquitaine. Originally from the 15th century or earlier, it consisted of a small square house on a vaulted cellar, supplemented by a scauguette. This site illustrates the evolution of seigneurial houses between defense and comfort, with traces of medieval fortifications and subsequent additions.

In 1560, the manor house was enlarged east side, with the addition of a tower and turret, reinforcing its defensive character. A wing covered with a mansard roof is attached in the 17th or 18th century, marking a transition to a more residential style. Architectural elements, such as mâchicoulis, archères-canonières and a tower of staircase in screws, testify to this functional duality.

Ranked Historic Monument by decree of 23 September 1953 and 18 March 1954, the castle adopts a plan in L with three building bodies and a barn. Its materials, stoneware and limestone, as well as slate covers, reflect local techniques. The interior courtyard and garden, lined with a stone wall, complete this complex representative of the fortified houses of the Limousin.

The remains of the mâchicoulis and the decorated chimney of the watchtower tower underline the strategic importance of the site. Successive reshuffles, such as the arched arched arched portal or the cul-de-lamp decorated with acanthe leaves, reveal a growing search for beautification, typical of the Renaissance and modern era.

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