Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Beaurecueil Castle is a fortified house built in the 15th century near the banks of the Allier, on the town of Nonette (Puy-de-Dôme). Originally built by the Duke of Berry in the 14th century as a favourite residence, this structure underwent major modifications, including the addition of windows at different times and the preservation of its original quadrilateral plan, flanked by four circular towers. The wooden gallery of the inner courtyard, typical of medieval architecture, remains today.

In the 18th century, the castle underwent important modifications: the level of the towers was lowered, and a new facade with a perron was created in the east. Inside, the building preserves ancient elements such as the vaults of the ground floor, the ceiling with flooring, and remarkable decorations (arching, panelling, stucco, traces of paintings). The estate also includes communes, a chapel to the south, and buildings operating in the north, all girded by a wall with gate.

Ranked a historic monument in 2010, the castle of Beaurecueil protects all its decorated interiors, its dovecote, as well as its outbuildings (large common, chapel). Today, it is privately owned and illustrates the architectural evolution of a seigneurial residence, from the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment, while preserving remains of its defensive and residential past.

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