Saint-Étienne Castle, Medieval castle on hilltop, Aurillac, France
Saint-Étienne Castle is a hilltop fortress above Aurillac with a square tower that overlooks the valley and frames views of the city and surrounding mountains. Today it houses a Museum of Volcanoes and an Environmental Research Center, offering visitors insights into the area's geology and ecology.
The fortress began in the 9th century and expanded through construction phases in the 12th and 14th centuries. During the French Revolution it became state property, and modifications in the 1700s altered its original form.
The castle connects to the founder of the nearby abbey, an influential monastic figure whose legacy shaped religious life in this region for centuries. Visitors can explore the stone chambers that echo this spiritual connection today.
The castle sits on a hilltop requiring an uphill walk to reach it. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be aware the access can be steep, especially in wet conditions.
The square tower originally rose over 30 meters high until partial demolition in 1747. This reduction in height significantly changed the monument's appearance and remains a striking aspect of its construction history.
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