Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

Vachères Castle is a feudal building built between the 13th and 14th centuries, typical of medieval defensive architecture. It consists of a central dungeon flanked by four turrets, surrounded by an esplanade protected by four low towers. Originally, the site probably housed a fortified residence, reflecting the need for protection characteristic of that time.

In the 18th century, the castle underwent important drilling partially modifying its original structure. A century later, in the 19th century, the four low towers rose again, altering its appearance. These transformations illustrate the evolution of residential and aesthetic needs from a purely defensive vocation to a residence more adapted to modern uses.

The interior preserves remarkable medieval elements, like two large vaulted rooms on the ground floor, with 14th century fireplaces. The first floor houses a gallery decorated with golden woodwork and paintings, as well as a living room decorated with panels attributed to Natoire, in blue camaïeu. The door tops, originally painted by Boucher, were replaced by copies. These details testify to the artistic refinement brought in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Ranked as historic monuments by order of 12 February 2013, the castle of Vachères is now fully protected, including all buildings and parcel. This official recognition underlines its heritage importance, both for its architecture and its history, marking almost eight centuries of architectural and social evolution in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

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