Chateau of Gordes, Medieval castle and historic monument in Laval-en-Belledonne, France
The Château de Gordes is a medieval castle in the village of Laval-en-Belledonne, France, classified as a historic monument. The building shows three distinct construction phases visible from the entrance: a 12th-century Saracen tower, a 14th-century tower, and 16th-century Renaissance towers with tall roofs and wide windows.
The castle was first recorded in 1031 and was built as a fortress to defend the surrounding valley. Around 1525, the Rambaud de Simiane family began transforming it in the Renaissance style, adding decorative elements that softened its defensive character.
The château now serves as a venue for contemporary art exhibitions, creating a visible contrast between old stone walls and modern works. This ongoing use connects the building to the daily life of the village, giving it a role beyond its architectural past.
The château is open year-round, though opening hours vary between summer and winter. The building is not wheelchair accessible, but photography is allowed inside the rooms.
Inside the castle, the large Renaissance fireplace is covered in carved leaves and flowers and features small niches that may represent the twelve apostles. The grand spiral staircase nearby was built so that each step was cut from a single piece of stone, a level of craftsmanship that is easy to overlook.
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