Château-Dauphin, Medieval castle in Pontgibaud, France
Château-Dauphin is a medieval castle in Pontgibaud featuring a double keep with a round tower integrated into a square structure. The building is surrounded by six remaining defensive towers that demonstrate its former protective role.
Robert I, Count of Auvergne, built the castle in the 12th century and named it after the dolphin symbol in his coat of arms. The name reflects this heraldic element that was significant to his family.
The castle houses a museum about regional silver mining with artifacts and documents from the 19th century. The exhibits show how important this industry was to the area and how people worked and lived during that period.
The site is accessible through guided tours that are well structured and explain the history and layout clearly. It is helpful to wear comfortable shoes since there are stairs and uneven surfaces throughout.
The grounds contain a sunken vegetable garden from the 16th century with its original design, classified as a monument. This hidden garden reveals how residents grew their own food and utilized the castle's spaces.
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