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Origin and history

The castle of Villandraut is erected in the southwest of France from 1305 under the impulse of Bertrand de Got, elected pope the same year under the name of Clement V. Originally from the region, the latter retains a special affection for Villandraut, where he has built this castle-palais as a residence during his stays in Guyenne. The work, probably completed around 1312, allowed Clement V to stay there as early as 1307-1308, although some parts were still under construction.

Designed as a homogeneous work despite its subsequent modifications, the castle embodies the power of Got's family. It combines three classical medieval functions: defense (doves, towers, drawbridge), habitat (U-logis with private and communal rooms), and symbol of prestige. The ground floor housed stables and kitchens, while the noble floor, accessible by stairs, included rooms, a chapel, and a large reception room of 240 m2.

The comfort of the castle, rare for the time, is attested by the presence of nineteen latrines and twenty-one chimneys. Although partially in ruins today, decorative elements remain: terracotta pavement tiles, carved vault keys, and fragments of wall paintings. These remains bear witness to the architectural and artistic richness of the palace, designed to reflect the exceptional status of its sponsor.

Ranked a historic monument on 12 July 1886, Villandraut Castle remains an emblematic example of civil and military architecture from the early 14th century. Its history is closely linked to the papacy of Avignon and the influence of the Got in Guyenne, then under English domination. Archaeological and historical studies, such as those of Jacques Gardelles or Louis Cadis, underline its importance in the Aquitaine heritage.

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