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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Narbonne, located in the commune of Saint-Just in Dordogne (New Aquitaine), is an emblematic building of the 16th and 17th centuries. Built in 1601 by Ponce Raymond and Thoinette de Conan, it is distinguished by its fortified rectangular dungeon, decorated with Renaissance motifs like carved shells and lion heads. This dungeon, inscribed in historical monuments since 1948, dominates a structure composed of two perpendicular wings, reflecting later architectural transformations.

The dungeon, dating from the beginning of the 16th century, presents three levels pierced with bays and dioculi, crowned by a mâchicoulis parapet with carved consoles. The south and west wings, redesigned in the 17th century, show traces of arches and old vaults, as well as a Mansard roof added later. The square dovecote, covered with lauzes, and the entrance gallery supported by round pillars complete this ensemble, illustrating the evolution of the styles and uses of the castle throughout the centuries.

Successive property of the Lacroze and Duclaud families, the castle of Narbonne embodies the seigneurial heritage of the region. Its partial inscription (donjon only) in 1948 underlines the heritage value of its Renaissance elements, while its hybrid architecture — combining medieval defence and residential comfort — bears witness to the social and cultural transitions between Renaissance and modern times in Périgord.

Today, the castle remains a local historic landmark, although its state of conservation and accessibility (visits, services) are not specified in the available sources. Its location in Saint-Just, in the former district of Périgueux, makes it a key element of the architectural heritage of the Dordogne, associated with other houses and castles of the region.

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