Château de la Bâtie, Medieval castle in Montceaux, France

Château de la Bâtie is a red brick fortress on elevated ground with remaining towers and reinforced walls. The structure overlooks the surrounding landscape of the Ain department from above.

The fortress originated in the 13th century as a military stronghold of the Beaujeu family. It was later modified while maintaining its role as an important defensive position in the region.

Inside, painted walls from the 16th century feature a dance of death scene on a beam in the central tower. These artworks show what kinds of artistic decorations once adorned such fortified residences.

The building is a private residence, so visits are only possible by prior arrangement. Information about viewing it can be obtained through local tourism services.

The château's name comes from the old French word for a fortified stronghold. Its 13th-century defences once counted four successive enclosure walls and nineteen towers, with the keep and original living quarters on the western side. The red brick is carron savoyard, made in the Dombes brickworks.