Château de Gannat

Château de Gannat is a fortress with four corner towers connected by high walls and equipped with defensive features like crenellations. The square layout reflects the strategic building style typical of fortifications from its era.

The fortress was built in the 14th century as a defensive structure outside the town walls. From the 16th century onward, the building served different purposes, including time as a prison, before eventually becoming a museum.

The castle houses the Musée Yves Machelon, where visitors can see religious objects like an ivory crucifix and old manuscripts on display. These items show how much these objects mattered to people in the area over time.

The museum is open year-round and offers both self-guided visits and group tours by reservation. Visitors should allow adequate time to explore the exhibition without rushing and to examine all the details on display.

The museum preserves a remarkable collection of seven horse-drawn carriages, offering a rare glimpse into daily life and transportation methods of past times. These vehicles give visitors an unexpected insight into practical aspects of life before industrial times.