Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Marsalès, located in the commune of the same name in New Aquitaine, is a noble den whose origins date back to the 15th century. The building, partially defensive, takes advantage of the natural relief: it is protected to the north by a steep rocky and to the south by a dry moat. Originally, the body of houses, of barlong shape, was flanked by two massive towers, taluted at their base. These towers, although today devoid of their round path and machicoulis, testify to the initial defensive vocation of the site.

In the 17th century, the castle underwent profound changes, particularly on the house body, which then adopted skylights decorated with triangular or circular frontons. The south facade is framed by buildings of communes, extended by rectangular pavilions at each end. To the west, only the southern pavilion remains. The court of honour, designed to be closed by a gate, is still marked by two reinforced pillars, surmounted by stone spheres, vestige of this missing fence.

Marsalès Castle has been listed as a Historic Monument since November 29, 1976, with protection covering facades, roofs, and the entrance gate. Its architecture thus blends medieval elements, such as talute towers, with classical additions, illustrating its evolution throughout the centuries.

External links