Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Cipières, also known as Château de Lacypières, is a building located in the commune of Saint-Crépin-et-Carlucet, in the Black Perigord (Dordogne). It is a rural mansion typical of the region, built on a barlong plan and covered with lauze. The site, occupied as early as Paleolithic, housed a first medieval fortification controlled by the knights of Ferrières, vassals of the barons of Salignac. Guilhem de Ferrières reportedly raised a den there before the end of the Hundred Years War.

In the 16th century, the castle was ceded to the family Bénéé de Lacypierre, originally from Salignac and linked to the royal judiciary of Sarlat. Reconstructed after the damage of the Hundred Years' War, it included a hexagonal staircase tower and a square tower, the latter having served as a justice tower. In the 17th century, amenities were added, such as a sundial and sled windows. In 1605, a chimney was rebuilt by a local mason.

In 1789, the castle belonged to Guillaume Béné, captain of cavalry and emigrated during the Revolution. Seized as demigrated property, he was returned to his sisters in 1796 after a succession dispute. In the 19th century, the estate moved to the Malbec family, which allowed it to deteriorate by housing farmers. In 1968, Mr. and Mrs. Lebon bought it back and began its restoration. Since 1946, the castle has been listed as historical monuments.

The castle also served as the setting for Ridley Scott's film Les Duelistes (1977), which shot interior scenes. Today, although private and inhabited, he visits Easter at Toussaint. Its architecture combines medieval defensive elements with Renaissance additions, reflecting its evolution throughout the centuries.

External links