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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The castle of Labastide-Murat, located in the Lot in Occitanie, was commissioned in 1807 by Joachim Murat, marshal of Napoleon and king of Naples, for his family. Designed by the Parisian architect Étienne-Chérubin Leconte, this rare neo-classical Quercy castle was built between 1807 and 1815, despite interruptions related to Murat's political obligations. His mother's death before work began and his own execution in 1815 marked his early history. His brother, André Murat, Count and heir, completed the construction and became his first occupant until 1841.

The castle then passed to Gaëtan Murat, deputy of the Lot, who added a chapel and a greenhouse (destroyed in 1914). His son, Joachim Joseph André Murat, changed the west facade in 1847 and restored the apartments. The estate was later transferred to Jean Lebaudy, grandson by alliance, who will also finance the development of the cave of Pech Merle, formerly owned by the Murat. The castle, with its park designed by Paul de Chulot in the 19th century, was inscribed in the Historical Monuments in 1991 and 1992.

Architecturally, the castle is distinguished by its orderly two-storey facade and a mansardic attic, a central forebody highlighted by pilasters, and an interior decor combining Empire and Second Empire styles. The building reflects Murat's ambition, born in the neighbouring village in 1767, and his imperial heritage. The chapel and the greenhouse, which disappeared in 1914, as well as the modifications of the nineteenth century, testify to the family and artistic evolution of the place.

Today, the castle retains protected elements such as the boudoir, the dining room, or the large living room, while its park, typical of the 19th century gardens, completes this heritage linked to the Napoleonic epic. Its late registration (1991-1992) highlights its historical and architectural value, unique in the region.

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