Château du Doux dans le Cantal

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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Doux Castle, located in Yolet in the Cantal, is a neo-classical building built in the mid-19th century. It replaces an old castle belonging to the family of Sales du Doux, local lords. The architectural style combines the Palladian influences of the 18th century, with a central body and two lateral forebody, only the left part of which remains today. The building, on two levels with attic, is completed by a troubadour style chapel serving as a family burial.

The construction of the present castle was initiated by Charles de Pollalion de Glavenas and his wife Jeanne Émilie de Sales du Doux, married in 1815. Their daughter, Marie Françoise, married Louis Désiré de La Salle de Rochemaure in 1850 and inherited the estate. Their son, Louis-Félix de La Salle de Rochemaure (1856-1915), an Occitan writer and prominent figure in the Cantal, then became its owner. The chapel houses its grave, highlighting the dynastic importance of the place.

The castle and its chapel, with their interior decorations, have been listed as historical monuments since 1992. This classification protects an architectural ensemble reflecting the local aristocratic heritage, from the medieval seigneury of the Sales du Doux to the neo-classical era. The site also illustrates the evolution of styles, from troubadour to Palladian, in a preserved rural setting.

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