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Origin and history

The Sailhant Castle is a 13th-century military building on a triangular basaltic spur 20-25 metres high in Andelat, Cantal. Its strategic position, about ten kilometers from Saint-Flour, suggests a role in defending this sub-prefecture. The site also includes the Sailhant waterfall, fed by the Babory Creek, which flows into a depth of 6 to 7 metres, surrounded by local legends such as that of a servant and her missing oxen.

Originally owned by the Sailhans family in the 13th century, the castle changed hands several times, especially during the Hundred Years War, where it was held by the English. Today, it belongs to Joseph Pell Lombardi, an American architect, and has been listed as a historical monument since 13 September 2019. Although not open to the public, it retains remarkable elements such as ancient frescoes, a staircase carved from the rock, and a chapel dedicated to Saint Ferval, whose body rests on the spot.

The architecture of the castle embraces the triangular shape of its basaltic base. It consists of a dungeon to the south, a north facade flanked by four round towers, and two smaller towers to the east and west, connected by a cliff-side wall. The dungeons occupy every angle of the triangle. The latest restorations date back to 2004, but the site remains a private property inaccessible to visitors.

The Sailhant waterfall, also known as the Babory waterfall, is an emblematic place associated with the castle. According to legend, a handmaid and her team disappeared in the abyss after an accident during the agricultural work. The night of the full moon, strange sounds – not of the handmaid and plow gnashing – would still be noticeable, feeding local folklore.

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