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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The castle of Anjony is a fortress built in the 15th century by Louis II d'Anjony, a companion of Jeanne d'Arc, on a spur overlooking the Doir valley. Built of lava stone without permission from the lords of Tournemire, it triggers a lasting conflict between the families of Anjony and Tournemire, marked by murders (1523, 1623) and duels. Its architecture, typical of the quadrilobed dungeons of northern France, is exceptionally preserved, without siege or destruction.

Inside, the grand hall of the 16th century houses frescoes of the Nine Preux commissioned by Michel I of Anjony and his wife Germaine de Foix around 1575, rediscovered in the 20th century. The private chapel, decorated with scenes of the Passion, was built by Louis III of Anjony after the assassination of his brother (1523), making it impossible to access the parish church. These decorations reflect the local tensions and the social rise of the family, anobligated in the 14th century through the trade of hides.

In the 18th century, Claude de Léotoing of Anjony added a rectangular house in basalt, sober externally but richly decorated (Louis XV woodworks, fireplaces). The family of Anjony died in the 17th century, transmitting the castle to the Leotoing, then to the Feligonde Pellissier by marriage. The latter, like Robert Féligonde (1881–1934), restored the site in the 20th century. Ranked a historical monument, the castle remains inhabited and appears in popular culture (Tiger Brigades).

Anjony's story illustrates the strategies of social ascent in Auvergne: enrichment through commerce, buying fiefs, and marriage alliances. The weather-resistant lava stone has allowed remarkable conservation, while the frescoes and interior decorations bear witness to the artistic influences of the Renaissance and the Enlightenment. The site also embodies late feudal rivalries, where the construction of an unauthorized castle could lead to centuries of revenge.

Future

The castle of Anjony is open to visit.

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