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Origin and history

The Château de Roquefort, located in the department of Lot-et-Garonne, was reportedly built in the 13th century, although there is no mention in the acts of tribute of 1256, 1281, or in the seizure of 1271. Its absence in these documents suggests a modest or late construction in this century. The site has a triple enclosure encompassing the end of a hillside, as well as a square tower reduced by half, a possible sign of early dismantling. A breach in the courtesies, summarily sealed with bricks, suggests a violent seizure shortly after its construction.

In the 16th century, the castle was in ruins when Jeanne d'Albret, Queen of Navarre and Viscountess of Bruilhois, gave it in 1562 to Jean de Secondat, seigneur of Roques, as part of a pact sale of perpetual redemption. These lands, previously confiscated from Peter II of Secondat (the father of John), include Roquefort and six other seigneuries. Henri de Bourbon, son of Jeanne d'Albret, confirmed this transfer in 1576 and added the option of redemption for 14,000 pounds. Jean de Secondat, married to Eléonore de Brénieu, transmitted the estate to his descendants, including Gaston de Secondat (1625-1693), held on the baptismal fonts by Gaston d'Orléans, brother of Louis XIII.

The Secondat family retained Roquefort until the end of the 18th century. Among its notable members, Denise de Secondat (1727-1800), daughter of Montesquieu, married in 1745 his cousin Geoffroy de Secondat de Roquefort, thus perpetuating the seigneurial inheritance. The castle, consisting of tower, house and enclosure, was listed as historic monuments in 2001, marking its heritage recognition despite its partial state of ruin.

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