Château de la Tour de Saint-Genis-Laval, Protected heritage castle in Saint-Genis-Laval, France
The Château de la Tour is a fortified castle with Renaissance design elements located in Saint-Genis-Laval east of Lyon. The property combines thick defensive walls with elegant architectural details from that era.
The castle was founded by the Villars family in the 16th century as their residence and later played a key role during the French Wars of Religion. In 1592, it served as the location where a truce was signed between the Duke of Nemours and Alphonse d'Ornano.
The castle shows how French nobles lived and built during the Renaissance, with features that reflect the tastes and way of life of this wealthy class.
The property is easily reached by public transportation or car from central Lyon through the Saint-Genis-Laval area. Walking paths around the grounds allow visitors to view the castle from different angles and appreciate its architecture.
During the French Revolution, the noble residence was converted into an administrative center for the Executive Directory. This shift in purpose shows how the property fundamentally changed its role in society.
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