Château de Benauge, Medieval fortress in Arbis, France
Château de Benauge is a stone fortress perched on a hilltop near Arbis, overlooking the Garonne Valley with defensive walls and observation towers. The structure includes a central keep and defensive ditches that demonstrate its original purpose as a military stronghold.
The fortress came under siege in 1253 and fell after forty days to forces of King Henry III of England during regional rebellion. This event marked a turning point in the medieval history of the area.
The fortress displays medieval defensive architecture typical of Aquitaine through its ditches, double walls, and towers that remain visible today. These structures show visitors how military defense actually worked in that period.
Group tours are available by advance booking throughout the year, with special opening during Heritage Days events. Planning ahead ensures you can arrange suitable access for your visit.
Stone cannonballs from the 1253 siege remain embedded in the fortress walls, serving as physical proof of that ancient battle. These tangible traces allow visitors to grasp the intensity of this medieval confrontation firsthand.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
