Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Castle of the Archbishops of Capestang, also known as Capestang Castle, is a medieval building built in the 14th and 15th centuries. It is located in the commune of Capestang, in the department of Hérault, in the region of Occitanie. This monument, inscribed in historical monuments, was erected by the Archbishops of Narbonne, probably between 1347 and 1375, and was first mentioned in 1360. Originally, it was a strong house with mâchicoulis for its defence.

Over the centuries, agricultural buildings have been added to the original structure. Two Gothic windows, probably dating from the mid-14th century, illuminate the main room on the first floor. The grand hall of the 14th century houses a wall decor made between 1311 and 1341, as well as a painted 15th century ceiling, dated between 1436 and 1460.

The entire castle, including the floors, buildings and remains in its enclosure, was classified as historical monuments on 29 September 1995. This site also inspired contemporary cultural creations, such as a bilingual illustrated album and a sound and light show in 2016, based on ceiling paintings.

Archaeological and historical research, such as that carried out by Agnès Marin or Lucien Bayrou, has helped to better understand the history of this castle, linked to the power of the archbishops of Narbonne in the Middle Ages. Restoration works, such as those carried out on the southern facade in 2010, contribute to its preservation.

External links