Château de Fumel, Medieval castle in Fumel, France
Château de Fumel is a castle in southwestern France built on elevated terrain with stone walls and several towers. The structure overlooks the Lot River valley and features terraced areas plus an adjacent park surrounding the grounds.
The castle was originally founded as a defensive stronghold during the Hundred Years War, but suffered severe damage in the 14th century. Reconstruction during the 15th century fundamentally changed its structure and created the form visible today.
The castle shows features from multiple periods, with rounded arches and pointed windows that reflect its different building phases. These layers are visible in the stonework and tell the story of how it was transformed over time.
The grounds are accessible year-round, including the flower-filled terraces and adjacent park areas. The building also serves as the town hall, so opening times may vary depending on local administrative activities.
During the French Revolution, authorities ordered the tops of the towers to be reduced to match the height of the main building, dramatically altering its appearance. This modification left clear marks on the building's silhouette and stonework that remain visible.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.