Château de Pesselières, Medieval castle in Jalognes, France.
The Château de Pesselières is a fortified structure with U-shaped layout surrounded by moats and defensive towers, located in Jalognes. A drawbridge that once protected the entrance was later replaced with a permanent stone bridge, while landscaped grounds surround the entire complex.
The property was first documented in 1170 and belonged for centuries to the Livron family, who held significant local power. It served as a key defensive fortress within Sancerre County throughout the medieval period.
The rooms display how aristocratic families lived from medieval times onward, with original furnishings and decorations that reflect daily life across centuries. The gardens are maintained using organic methods without chemical treatments, showing a connection to the land and natural cycles.
The castle is open from May through September, Wednesday to Sunday, with special events scheduled during the summer season. Guided tours are often available and can provide deeper insight into the building's structure and past uses.
A hedge maze made from more than 900 hornbeam trees was planted in front of the eastern side of the castle in 2009. This living structure creates a playful contrast to the fortress's austere medieval walls and stone architecture.
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