Château de Filain

Château de Filain is a castle featuring four round towers, two square towers, and defensive walls separated by dry moats. The combination of these structures creates a fortified residence with both military and residential purposes.

The Sacquenay family began construction around 1550, incorporating elements from a 15th-century fortified house into the design. This blending of older structures with new work shows how medieval features were adapted for Renaissance living.

The guard room displays a Renaissance fireplace showing how craftsmen worked and decorated spaces in the 16th century. These details help visitors understand the techniques and tastes of that period.

The castle is located about 8 miles (13 kilometers) south of Vesoul in the Haute-Saône department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. Good walking shoes are recommended since some paths around the grounds are unpaved.

General Baron Jacob François Marola, who defended Besançon from Austrian forces, owned the castle for four decades starting in 1808. His military role and connection to this place remain largely forgotten today despite their importance to local French history.

Location: Filain

GPS coordinates: 47.51777,6.18480

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25