Château des Ducs de Joyeuse

Château des Ducs de Joyeuse is a Renaissance castle in Couiza with round towers at each corner and an inner courtyard displaying grand architectural elements from that era. The structure combines defensive features with elegant residential proportions typical of the period.

The castle was built in the 16th century for the Dukes of Joyeuse family and gained protected status in 1913. The chapel originates from the François 1er period while the main construction displays features from the Henri II era.

The rooms display French-style ceiling paintings that reflect the artistic taste of Renaissance nobility. These artworks show the craftsmanship quality that was typical of the period.

The building operates as a hotel with a restaurant serving regional cuisine and seasonal products. Visitors can explore the interior rooms and discover the architectural details throughout the structure.

The castle chapel preserves design features from the François 1er period while the main rooms reflect a later construction phase. This overlap between two royal eras makes it a rare example of modifications carried out across a single dynasty.