Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Caillac Castle, also known as Calhac, is a historic monument located in Vézac, Cantal, in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Built between the 16th and 19th centuries, it consists of two houses in square and a round tower, with a Renaissance façade inspired by Messilhac. The estate includes a farm, a mill and a park that is now abandoned, although it was once a remarkable arboretum. In 1997, it was listed as a historical monument, with interior decorations from the 18th and 19th centuries, such as woodwork and murals.

The castle finds its origins in the tenth century, mentioned in the will of Agnes de Mels, wife of the Viscount of Carlat. Over the centuries, he passed into the hands of several influential families: the Chaumeil (which was completed in 1486), the Buisson de Bournazel (XVIth-17th centuries), and the Boschâtel and Beauclair (XVth century). The latter, like Géraud de Beauclair, lieutenant in the Sarre-Infantry regiment, marked the history of the place before its sale to the Marty family in the 19th century.

In the 19th century, Pierre Marty, merchant of Aurillac, acquired the estate and undertook restorations. His son, Pierre Marty (1868–1940), a renowned naturalist and scientist, developed an arboretum and conducted research in paleontology and botany. After his death, the castle was gradually abandoned, looted, and partially restored by groups of young (scouts) in the 1970s–1980s. Today, he is not visiting, but his park and protected interior elements (painted lounges, library) testify to his rich past.

The interior decorations, such as the four-season bedroom or the glazed living room, reflect the 18th and 19th century layouts. The park, conceived as an arboretum, housed rare species, but its maintenance was neglected after the 20th century. The chapel and barn-stable have also been protected since 1997, highlighting the heritage importance of the site despite its current state.

Homeowner families have left distinct architectural and historical traces. The Chaumeil, anoblis under Charles VIII, transformed the castle in the 16th century, while the Beauclairs, in the 18th century, added refined decorations. The Martys finally gave him a scientific vocation before his decline. The coat of arms of the Boschâtels (‘Sand to the castle of the Golden') and that of the Beauclairs recall these nobliaries.

Although closed to the public, the Château de Caillac remains a symbol of the heritage of Haute-Auvergne, mixing medieval history, Renaissance and scientific contributions. Its inscription in historical monuments in 1997 aims to preserve this testimony of past times, despite the challenges posed by its partial abandonment.

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