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Origin and history

The castle of Peufeilhoux, located in Vallon-en-Sully in the department of Allier (region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes), finds its origins in the early Middle Ages. Originally built in wood, it was rebuilt in pink sandstone in the 14th century, with a dungeon and a low court. This strategic site dominates the Tronçais forest, the Cher Valley and the Aumance Valley, reflecting its defensive and symbolic importance in the region.

In the 17th century, the castle passed into the hands of several noble families, including the lords of Courtines (Durand Villatte) from 1675. The latter retained it until 1900, but gradually abandoned it in favour of the Château des Modières. This period marked a decline for Peufeilhoux, who fell into ruins before being bought and restored from 1920 by Michel Machard, financial inspector. The works, carried out with architect René Sappin des Raynaud, lasted seven years (1920-1927) and gave the castle its glory.

The castle of Peufeilhoux, of neo-Gothic style with Burgundy Renaissance elements, is characterized by its double enclosure, towers, chapel and commons. It has been home to a museum of explorers, exhibiting collections of insects, minerals and naturalized animals. In 2013, it was acquired by Claude Thévenin, and in 2021 it was registered with historical monuments, protecting the entire site, including its gates and enclosures.

Historical sources also mention earlier owners, such as the seigneur of Pierrebrune (or Pierregrave) at the end of the sixteenth century, and Gilbert Jehannot, seigneur of Pallières, about 1675. These hand changes illustrate the social and economic evolution of the local nobility, while the architecture of the castle bears witness to successive stylistic influences, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

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