Château de Sainte-Hermine

Chateau de Sainte-Hermine is a castle built with architectural elements spanning the 13th to 17th centuries, preserving original fireplaces and painted decorations within its stone walls. The multiple construction phases are visible in the varying architectural styles that appear across its facades and interior spaces.

The castle first appears in records under Pierre Troncas in the 12th century, with the Mareuil family taking control from 1170 onward. Over the following centuries, it underwent various reconstructions that shaped its current form with elements spanning multiple periods.

The chapel inside was dedicated to Saint Irmine and became so important to the community that the town adopted the name Sainte-Hermine. Local people connected their sense of place to this spiritual center within the castle walls.

Visiting this castle requires advance arrangement since it remains private property with limited public access. Its registration as a historical monument since 2005 gives it official recognition, though access depends on owner permission.

King Louis XIII stayed here in 1622 with his family, and recent renovations uncovered architectural traces of this royal visit. The encounter with the royal court left physical marks visible in the castle's structure today.

Location: Saint-Jean-d'Hermine

GPS coordinates: 46.55830,-1.05694

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:07