Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The ruins of the Château fort de la Rochette, located in Estandeuil in Puy-de-Dôme, date from the 16th century. This historic monument is distinguished by an imposing cylindrical dungeon of 16 meters in diameter, surrounded by buildings organised around a central courtyard. The dungeon, composed of two floors on cellars, preserves defensive elements such as crows supporting old scallops, as well as a screw staircase connecting the levels. Each floor contains three rooms with ground chimneys and period tile fragments, testimony of its residential and defensive use.

The vaulted chapel, integrated into the enclosure, completes this architectural ensemble. The facades, oriented around the courtyard, contrast with the mass of the dungeon. Ranked a Historical Monument by order of February 18, 1925, the site illustrates the Renaissance castral architecture, combining military and domestic functions. The remains, though partial, offer an overview of the construction techniques and seigneurial way of life of the time.

The location of the castle in the town of Estandeuil (code Insee 63155) is estimated with satisfactory accuracy (level 6/10). The site, now in ruins, retains a heritage value marked by its early inscription as historical monuments. No information is available on its current accessibility or contemporary uses (visits, events).

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