Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Chambes, located in Roumazières-Loubert on the edge of the Charente, finds its first mention written in 1444 as a noble fief. The present building is rebuilt in the 16th century on the foundations of an older castle, which remains two 13th century entrance towers integrated into the fortified enclosure. Its architecture combines a framed facade of two asymmetric towers (one round, the other square) and a west pavilion added in the seventeenth century, while a adjoining building, probably from the eighteenth century, completes the wing in return on the gardens.

Sold as a national property during the Revolution, the castle preserves traces of 19th century layouts (openings, interiors). Its main access, flanked by two identical round towers, leads to a L-shaped house, accompanied by unattended commons (including an old mill and a supply). In 2008, Imitator Yves Lecoq acquired the estate and installed guest rooms there. Since 8 December 2009, the castle has been listed as a historic monument, protecting all the houses, towers, outbuildings and fence walls.

Medieval defensive elements, such as the 13th century entrance towers, contrast with Renaissance and classical additions. The site, classified for its archaeological potential, illustrates the evolution of a Charente seigneury over nearly 600 years, from the wars of Religion to the contemporary period. The remains of the enclosure walls and the communes (moulin, supply) testify to its economic and agricultural role in the region.

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