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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The château de Cropières, located in Raulhac in the Cantal, is mentioned from the fourteenth century as a medieval fortress intended to defend the valley of Goul. Destroyed in 1381 by the English troops, he was rebuilt and successively passed to the families of Montjou, Fontanges, and then Scorailles. In the 17th century, it was profoundly transformed into a recreational residence, losing its defensive elements to adopt a style inspired by Versailles.

At the beginning of the 18th century, under the impulse of Annet Joseph de Scorailles, Marquis de Roussilhe, the castle takes its present configuration with a western wing equipped with a monumental staircase and a large reception room decorated with painted panels. The estate then included a chapel, gardens and outbuildings, but part of the north wing, including the chapel, was demolished in the early 20th century because of its condition.

The castle is famous for being the birthplace of Marie-Angélique de Scorailles (1661–81), Duchess of Fontanges and short-lived favourite of Louis XIV. His brother, Annet Joseph de Scorailles, undertook sumptuous improvements, inspired by the fascists of the royal court. After the Revolution, the castle was abandoned before being classified as a Historic Monument in 1986. Today, it is being restored by a dedicated association.

The oldest remains, such as the western part of the north wing, recall the medieval origin of the castle, while the interior decorations (paintings, woodwork) and the balustrade staircase illustrate its peak in the eighteenth century. The bust of Louis XIV, represented in God Mars, and the stone lions surrounding the staircase testify to his connection with the monarchy.

The property changed hands throughout the centuries, from Montjou (XIVth–XVIth centuries) to Fontanges, then to Scorailles, which grew and embellished. In the 19th century, he entered the family of Valady, before being passed on to the Chiefdebien, current owners. Despite its prolonged abandonment, the castle remains a symbol of the Auvergnat heritage, mixing medieval history and royal heritage.

Restoration efforts are aimed at preserving major architectural elements, such as the balustrade of the terrace, the panel of the reception hall and the remains of the medieval dungeon. Although not open to the public, the castle continues to fascinate with its history linked to the courtyard of Louis XIV and its architectural evolution, reflecting the transitions between fortress, seigneurial residence and pleasure castle.

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