Château de Saint-Saturnin, Medieval castle in Saint-Saturnin, France.
Description
Château de Saint-Saturnin is a medieval castle built on a lava flow in the Auvergne region, featuring prominent defensive elements. Its walls display crenellations, machicolations, and a protected walkway, while deep dry moats surround the fortification.
History
The castle was originally founded in the 10th century and served as a strategic stronghold for regional control. In the 16th century it entered the hands of the Medici family when Catherine inherited it from her mother, marking a shift in its importance.
Culture
The name originates from Saint Saturnus and remains central to the site's identity today. A small chapel within the walls offers a quiet space that many visitors overlook, providing views over the surrounding landscape.
Practical
The site is open to visitors from April through September, with guided tours showcasing the architecture and grounds. Wear sturdy footwear, as paths over the lava base are uneven and interior stone stairs can be steep.
Did you know?
Three monumental fireplaces from the 1630 renovation remain intact in the main building, remarkable for their scale and craftsmanship. These features reveal much about the lifestyle and wealth of the noble residents who inhabited the castle during that period.
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