Château les Bouysses, Medieval castle in Mercuès, France
Chateau les Bouysses is a medieval castle in the Lot department of southwestern France and is designated as a protected historic monument. The property spreads across roughly 48 hectares with approximately equal portions of vineyards and hazelnut orchards.
The property was founded in 1232 when Dame Guillemette received the land from Lord Raymond de Lard to establish a Cistercian priory. Over time the place shifted its focus toward wine production, particularly in the 18th century.
The chapel and cellar areas display medieval construction, while the main residence reflects Italian influences from the 18th century. This blend of religious and secular architecture still shapes how the property appears today.
The main building features a reception room with oak flooring that can accommodate up to 200 people and works well for various events. The large landscaped grounds with vineyards and orchards make the property an open and easy place to explore.
In 1745 the nuns demolished their chapel to make way for a wine cellar, a turning point in the site's history. This unusual decision shows how completely the estate's priorities shifted toward wine production.
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