Château d'Essalois, Medieval castle in Chambles, France.
Château d'Essalois is a medieval castle perched on a hilltop overlooking Lake Grangent and the Loire River, featuring two square towers and thick defensive walls. The site contains several structures built and modified over centuries, which you can still see today.
The castle first appeared in records around 1337, remaining largely unchanged for two centuries until Leonard de Bertrand undertook major construction work around 1580. Later, the fortification came under attack during the religious conflicts that swept through the region.
The castle houses an interpretation center about the heritage of the Loire Gorges, with displays on local history and how the dam shaped the region. Today you can see how this place connects to people's lives along the river.
The site is best explored on foot, though path conditions can vary depending on the season. Guided tours are available and help you understand the architectural features and the story of the place better.
Archaeological digs here have uncovered evidence of wine trade between local residents and Italian merchants more than 2,000 years ago. These findings reveal economic connections that stretch back much further than the castle's medieval walls.
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