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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Andelot, built in the 12th century in Andelot-Morval in the Jura, was a powerful medieval fortress until the Revolution. Its defensive structure consisted of three successive enclosures, ditches and drawbridges leading to the dungeon, while a tower served as a prison. In July 1789, during the Great Fear, the peasants burned the castle, destroying archives and seigneurial charters. Today, only the dungeon and the third entrance of the 14th century remain, classified as a historical monument in 1926.

From 1206 to 1660, the castle belonged to the family of Coligny, before passing by marriage to Gilbert V of Langheac, then to his descendants. In 1702, Marie-Roger, their grandson, sold it to Joachim Guyénard, President of the Besançon Parliament. The Guyénard family, emigrated to the United States after the Revolution, lost the castle, sold as a national property in 1807 to the Viot family. In 1924 the descendants of Guyénard, Ferdinand Lamamot Belin and Pierre S. du Pont bought him back to restore him. He's been with their family ever since.

The castle played a diplomatic role in 1938 by welcoming the Duke of Windsor and ambassadors, including that of Japan. During World War II, he served as refuge for the Allies during the liberation of France. These events marked its recent history, between family heritage and international issues.

Architecturally, the site illustrates the evolution of medieval fortresses into seigneurial residences. Its 14th century fortified gate, a unique vestige classified with the dungeon, bears witness to its strategic importance. The successive transformations reflect the political and social changes, from feudality to revolution, to modern restorations.

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