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Origin and history

The castle of La Chaise, originally named château du Riau, is located in the commune of Monétay-sur-Allier, in the department of Allier. Built in the 15th century, it was first mentioned in 1473 as the property of Claude Popillon, a silversmith of the Duke John II of Bourbon. Its location, close to an active river port, bears witness to its role in local trade, especially for the shipping of wine from Saint-Pourçain.

During the Ancien Régime, the castle belonged to the family of Roys, who held influential administrative and judicial functions at Moulins. This link with the local aristocracy reinforces its historical importance in the region. In the 19th century, it passed into the hands of the Star family, who still own it today.

The castle has evolved over the centuries, moving from a seigneurial residence to a modern welcoming place. Today, it offers guest rooms and reception rooms, combining heritage preservation and tourist development. Its architecture and history reflect the economic and social dynamics of Bourbonnais, marked by river trade and the influence of noble families.

Historical sources, such as Châteaux, fiefs, mots, fortified houses and manor houses in Bourbonnais (2004), confirm its anchoring in the local architectural landscape. Despite sometimes incomplete references, his legacy remains a key evidence of regional history, between seigneurial power and trading activities.

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