Initial construction XVe siècle (≈ 1550)
Orthogonal castle with defenses.
XIXe siècle
Major transformations
Major transformations XIXe siècle (≈ 1865)
Partial destruction, redesign of facades.
1988
Historic Monument Protection
Historic Monument Protection 1988 (≈ 1988)
Registration by order of 27 July.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Fortified entrance work; roofs of all buildings and towers northwest and southwest; North, West and South exterior facades of the entire castle (including towers); remains of the isolated north-east tower; ground of Parcel C 752 containing the vaulted cellar located near the North Tower (Box C 752): inscription by order of 27 July 1988
Key figures
Information non disponible - No character mentioned
The source text does not mention any historical actors.
Origin and history
The Château du Plaix-Joliet, located in Lourdoueix-Saint-Michel, finds its origins in the 15th century, when it was built in the form of an orthogonal castle-yard, flanked by towers and courties. This type of building, typical of the castles of the late Middle Ages in the region, was designed to provide effective defence while sheltering a central courtyard. The current remains, including the western and southern sides of the quadrilateral, as well as part of the north court, bear witness to this initial structure.
During the 19th century, the castle underwent important transformations that profoundly altered its appearance. The buildings closing the courtyard in the east and north were destroyed, leaving only a plan in the U. The facades on the courtyard were reworked, while the entrance work, characteristic with its corner skewers, its covered mâchicoulis and its parapet adorned with trilobed arches, was preserved. These architectural elements recall the original defensive aspect of the monument.
The Château du Plaix-Joliet has been partially protected under the Historic Monuments since 1988. The registration order covers, inter alia, the fortified entrance structure, the roofs of buildings and towers, as well as the north, west and south exterior facades. The remains of the northeastern isolated tower and the ground of the plot containing a vaulted cellar are also included in this protection, highlighting the heritage importance of the remaining elements.
