Château de Montjézieu

Château de Montjézieu is a fortified tower set above the Lot Valley near La Canourgue, built from limestone and rising three stories high. The structure displays typical medieval defensive features including reinforced walls and machicolated parapets for protection.

The fortress first appeared in written records during the 12th century as property of the King of Aragon. By the 13th century, ownership had passed to the Bishops of Mende in the region.

The name Montjézieu has medieval origins linked to a Jewish settlement that existed nearby during that period. This history shaped the character of the area and the communities that lived around the fortress.

The site lies roughly 6 kilometers from La Canourgue and functions as a private residence closed to visitors. Since being classified as a historic monument in 1971, it remains protected but not available for public viewing.

The fortress escaped a demolition order from the Estates General of Languedoc in 1653, while many neighboring castles were torn down during that period. This rare exemption allowed it to survive intact into modern times.

Location: La Canourgue

GPS coordinates: 44.48190,3.20639

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:27