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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The castle of Ambérieux-en-Dombes, founded in the 12th century by the Sires of Villars, was rebuilt in the 14th century under Humbert V of Thoire-Villars. It served as a centre for the seigneury of Ambérieux and became the capital of a chestnut-tree of the principality of Dombes. Its remains, including three towers and a 12th century square dungeon, testify to its strategic importance. The castle was partially destroyed during conflicts, notably in 1408, and then restored several times, including a complete reconstruction in 2010.

Tradition combines the site with the Burgundian kings, evoking a possible Gondebaud palace. In the 15th century, the castle passed into the hands of influential families such as Bourbon, Gadagne and Damascus d'Antigny. In 1743 Louis Auguste de Bourbon, Duke of Maine, alienated the land from the Damascus family. In the 19th century, a church was built in the centre of the castle, resulting in the partial destruction of the ramparts.

Architecturally, the castle is distinguished by its carron walls (clay bricks and cooked clay), a local technique due to the absence of stone quarries. The walls, consisting of two spaced walls filled with lime and pebbles, include a 19-metre dungeon and a round tower. Three towers have been classified as historical monuments since 1905, and other elements have been listed in 2019.

The castle was the scene of several battles, as the assault repelled in 1460 by the garrisons of Peruges and Miribel. Its history reflects the struggles of power in Dombes, between local lords, Dukes of Bourbon and crown of France. Today, the ruins, communal property, recall its central role in the medieval and Renaissance history of the region.

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