Château d'Uriage, Medieval castle in Saint-Martin-d'Uriage, France.
Château d'Uriage is a castle featuring medieval defensive structures combined with Renaissance design elements, notably fortified walls and an impressive orangery on the garden level. Today the building contains approximately 50 private apartments while remaining accessible to visitors during designated heritage days.
The castle was built around the end of the 10th century and underwent significant transformations during the 15th and 16th centuries to meet new military requirements. These changes reflect the evolution of defensive architecture during the Renaissance period.
The castle served as a national leadership academy for youth from 1940 to 1942, becoming a focal point for social change during the Second World War. This role reveals how the building functioned beyond its walls as a space tied to France's historical turning points.
The castle opens to visitors only during European Heritage Days held in September each year. Plan your visit around this annual event to explore the historic rooms and garden spaces.
The castle received two distinct heritage designations: initial registration as a historic monument in 1988, followed by partial classification in 1990. This dual recognition highlights the architectural importance of different sections within the building.
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