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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

Castelfranc Castle, located in Montredon-Labessonnié in the Tarn region of Occitanie, is a monument dating back to the first quarter of the 16th century. Today, the old castle remains only the gazebo, built in 1610, which bears witness to its historical and architectural importance. This rectangular building, surrounded by a square tower serving as an observatory, features an outdoor wooden gallery inspired by medieval hurdles. The site underwent major transformations after its destruction in 1628, and its partial reconstruction in 1835 by the family of Solages, which incorporated architectural elements reused from Toulouse buildings.

The castle is closely linked to William de Nautonier, geographer of King Henry IV, who built the first astronomical observatory in France. After being looted and destroyed in 1628, the estate was partially rebuilt in the 17th century, before being completely renovated in 1835. The Solages, then the family of Pierre de Bernis, inherited it and contributed to its preservation. Since 1993, certain elements of the castle, such as the main façade, the gazebo, orangery and the chapel, have been protected as historical monuments.

The present layout of the castle and its annexes (orangery, chapel) forms an L-shaped ensemble, located on the edge of the former castle's planade. This monument thus illustrates several epochs, mixing Renaissance remains, 19th century reconstructions and re-use of Toulouse elements. Its history reflects the architectural changes and political upheavals of the region, from its initial function to its contemporary heritage value.

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