Château de Montrognon, Medieval castle ruins in Ceyrat, France
Château de Montrognon is a castle ruin located on a volcanic hill in Ceyrat, with a circular tower reaching approximately 17 meters high. The site stands at 699 meters elevation and overlooks the surrounding valleys, while the fortification's structural remains are still visible today.
Robert I built the fortress in 1190 after losing his stronghold at Clermont. Cardinal Richelieu ordered its demolition in 1633 to weaken the local nobility's power.
The name comes from Latin 'mons rugosus', meaning rugged mountain, a reference to the rocky volcanic terrain that still dominates the site. Visitors walking through the ruins can sense how the fortress was shaped by and named after its dramatic natural setting.
The ruins are freely accessible throughout the year and provide views over the surrounding area. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and move carefully, as loose stones and unstable structural elements pose risks.
In 1884, two treasure hunters searching for Templar gold became trapped under the castle debris and were only recovered after seven days. One of them did not survive the ordeal.
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