Château de Gençay, Medieval castle in Gençay, France.
Château de Gençay is a medieval fortress in western France featuring two circular towers and a gatehouse. The structure displays defensive techniques from the 13th century through its stone walls and strategic layout.
Geoffroy IV de Rancon built this fortress around 1250 as a key defense point. King Charles V later conquered it during several sieges in the Hundred Years War.
The castle takes its name from the Gençay family, who shaped the region for generations. Today visitors can see how locals use the site for gatherings and cultural events.
The site is open to visitors but it is best to check opening times in advance since guided tours are required. The grounds are relatively easy to walk with level terrain, though some stone pathways can be uneven.
The fortress was officially protected when added to France's heritage list in 1840. This protection became necessary after the building had been used as a stone quarry during the 1820s, causing significant damage.
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