Château de Beaufort, Medieval castle in Goudet, France
Château de Beaufort is a ruined castle perched on a rocky peak overlooking three valleys and the Loire River in Goudet. The site displays square foundations and vaulted rooms that reveal fortification work carried out across different construction periods.
The fortress was founded around 1200 by Lambert de Goudet as a regional stronghold. In the 16th century, a bastion and tower were added to strengthen its defenses.
The castle displays medieval military design through its square layout and vaulted rooms, revealing construction methods used across different time periods. The remaining walls tell the story of the craftsmen who built and later modified the structure.
Visiting the ruins requires advance booking by phone to arrange a guided tour. The site sits on an exposed peak, so sturdy footwear and caution with heights are recommended.
Despite numerous sieges during the Hundred Years War, the fortress was never conquered before its eventual abandonment. This resistance to repeated attacks made it a notable example of medieval defensive engineering.
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