Château de Sallenôves, Medieval castle in Marlioz, France
Château de Sallenôves sits perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the valleys where two rivers meet in the Haute-Savoie region. The complex is surrounded by defensive features including twin dry moats that still mark the outer boundaries of the property.
The fortress was built in the 12th century to control passage along a key trade route connecting Geneva and Seyssel through the Genevese territories. This strategic position gave the structure importance as a military checkpoint during the medieval period.
The coat of arms of the Sallenove family decorates the main entrance, reflecting the lineage that shaped this region for centuries. Two square towers rise from the structure, each telling a story through their medieval design and strategic placement.
The property remains privately owned, so visitors can only explore the exterior and its defensive structures from outside the perimeter. Plan your visit during clear weather to fully appreciate the landscape views and the building's position on the hilltop.
Local folklore speaks of the Chambre du Diable, a room where legend claims a spectral armored horse appears in the dead of night. This eerie tale has persisted through generations and continues to intrigue visitors exploring the castle's shadowy history.
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