Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Leignecq Castle, mentioned in 1227 as many of the lords of Saint-Bonnet, was explicitly cited in 1287. At that time, it belonged to the Rochebaron, then passed under their control in 1290. The donjon and the house, probably built in the 13th century, are attributed to these families. These medieval structures reflect a typical defensive architecture, with a five-level dungeon and a vaulted house, partly in stone and stone.

In the 15th century, under the Châteauneuf de Rochebonne, the castle underwent a major restoration: the bays of the dungeon were modified, the house was remodeled, and the enclosure was reinforced with canonary archers. A barbacan is added, and buildings in the lower yard may date from this period. This work illustrates the adaptation of the castle to the military and residential developments of the time.

In the 19th century, the castle changed its function radically. In 1800, the Flachat d'Apinac sold part of the buildings to farmers, while the dungeon was transformed into a bell tower in 1866 by the local factory. In 1871, part of the house was demolished to build a church, marking the end of its purely seigneurial use. These changes reflect the social and religious changes in the region.

Leignecq Castle has been listed in the Historical Monuments since 1937 for its remains, including the dungeon and the house. Its architecture thus combines medieval elements, Renaissance additions and modern modifications, testifying to its turbulent history and its adaptation to the successive needs of its owners.

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