Château du Sailhant, Medieval castle in Andelat, France.
Château du Sailhant is a castle built on a triangular volcanic spur in Andelat, featuring seven towers constructed from ancient lava blocks and topped with stone slate roofs. The thick walls rise prominently from the rocky base, creating a fortified structure that commands views over the surrounding landscape.
The fortress was founded over a thousand years ago and served military purposes during the Hundred Years War. After the French Revolution, it was converted into a farmhouse and later underwent restoration.
The architecture combines military defense elements with residential features, displaying the evolution of French castle construction from the Middle Ages.
Access to the castle is by guided tour only, available during the warmer months from April through September. Wear sturdy shoes for the climb, as the approach follows steep volcanic terrain with uneven footing.
The castle rises directly above a natural waterfall, with the volcanic rock formation integrated into its defensive design. This natural water source provided both practical advantages and dramatic visual impact to the fortress.
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