Château de Virieu, Medieval castle in Val-de-Virieu, France.
Château de Virieu is a medieval castle in Val-de-Virieu featuring four pointed towers that rise above residential buildings topped with triangular dormers. The structure sits surrounded by centuries-old beech and lime trees that create a wooded setting around it.
The castle dates from the 11th century and received cannons as gifts from King Louis XIII in 1622, which are now displayed under brick arcade galleries. These gifts reflect the Virieu family's close ties to the French royal court.
The chapel inside holds a carved Stations of the Cross made by Stéphanie de Virieu, with a ceiling designed to look like an upturned boat. These artistic details show how the family brought their faith and creativity into this sacred space.
The castle opens from April to November on weekends and holidays, with daily access in July and August except Mondays. Plan visits in advance outside the summer season, as tours are less frequent during spring and fall months.
The entrance door contains exactly 2115 original nails and displays the Virieu family coat of arms above the threshold. This carefully preserved detail points to the craftsmanship and family pride built into the structure.
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