Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The château de Châlucet, located in Saint-Jean-Ligoure in Haute-Vienne, consists of two distinct ensembles: a castrum founded around 1130 (Bas-Châlucet) and a new château (Haut-Châlucet) built at the end of the 13th century. The latter, transformed into an imposing palace after 1270, became the largest fortified castle in Limousin. It symbolized the seigneurial power, disputed between bishops and Viscounts of Limoges.

In 1376, during the Hundred Years' War, the castle was taken by English roadmen, including Perrot le Béarnais, who used it as a base for looting the surrounding area until 1394. He lost his military interest in modernized fortresses such as the Cars. In the 16th century, it served as a refuge during the Wars of Religion, before being partially ruined in 1594 by the consuls of Limoges to demilitarize it.

The site, classified as a historical monument since 1875, includes defensive remains (Jeannette Tower, 12th century square dungeon) and houses. Archaeological excavations, conducted in the 2000s by Patrice Conte, revealed a proto-urban habitat housing 20-30 knights. Since 1996, the departmental council of Haute-Vienne has been conducting a restoration programme to make it a cultural and tourist place.

The Jeannette Tower, a defensive dungeon of the 12th–13th centuries, was reinforced with a summital platform and a metal staircase. The Haut-Chalucet, non-visitable, offers panoramic views of the inner courtyard. The Bas-Châlucet, with its medieval houses and cellars, bears witness to the daily life of the thirteenth century. The site, free of charge, offers a tourist circuit with explanatory signs.

The Châlucet association in Limousin, led by Laurent Bourdelas, played a key role in its safeguard. She campaigned for her inscription in tourist routes such as the Route Richard Coeur de Lion and found missing varnished tiles. The department, owner since 1996, continues the restorations, especially on the chapel and the threatened walls.

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