Château de Chalus

Château de Chalus is a medieval fortress in Limousin featuring a circular keep from the 12th century as its central stronghold. Surrounding it are residential buildings dating from the 11th to 13th centuries that demonstrate how the fortification expanded and adapted over time.

The fortress began as an 11th century construction on a Aquitanian hilltop and served as a strategic outpost for generations. In 1199, English king Richard the Lionheart was fatally struck by a crossbow bolt during its siege, an event that forever linked the place to medieval legend.

The castle demonstrates the architectural evolution of French military fortifications through its various construction phases and modifications.

The site sits atop a hill and offers guided tours in multiple languages to help visitors explore its different sections. The grounds feature parking areas and a cafeteria where you can rest between exploring the various buildings and towers.

The chapel crypt holds remains of King Richard the Lionheart, making this one of the rare places where English royal history directly intersects with a French fortress. This unusual connection draws visitors interested in understanding how medieval borders and loyalties crossed between what are now separate nations.