The Dukes of the Bourbon castle in Montluçon, Medieval castle in Montluçon, France.
The Dukes of the Bourbon castle is a medieval fortress on a hill in Montluçon featuring a square keep, main residence, and clock tower from the 15th century. The structure houses collections from the Museum of Popular Music and offers views across the Bourbonnais plains from its upper levels.
The fortress was founded in 1070 by Guillaume de Bourbon and served as the seat of the family during their rise to power. The building experienced English occupation between 1171 and 1188 before returning permanently to French control.
The castle embodies the power of the House of Bourbon, whose members later became French kings and shaped European royal courts. Its rooms tell the story of a family that shaped history across generations.
The castle sits on a hilltop, which means the walk up requires some effort but rewards visitors with wide views of the surrounding landscape. Wear comfortable shoes since the paths to and around the building are uneven and steep.
Inside the castle is a remarkable wooden gallery from the 15th century that has survived numerous renovations and changes in use over the centuries. This rare remnant reveals how the interior once looked before modern adaptations transformed the building.
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