Château de Lavardens, Medieval castle in Lavardens, France
The Château de Lavardens sits on a rocky hilltop and contains seventeen rooms with terracotta and limestone floors displaying geometric patterns throughout. Each space features these distinctive floor designs as a consistent architectural element.
First documented in 1140, the castle belonged to the Counts of Gascony until 1473 when royalist forces claimed it under Louis XI. This change of power marked a turning point in the site's long history.
The castle functions as an art center and hosts exhibitions of contemporary artists working in ceramics, painting, and traditional French nativity figurines. Visitors can explore rooms displaying both modern works and handcrafted objects.
The castle sits on a hillside with steep paths, so wear comfortable shoes and allow extra time for the climb. The visit requires some physical effort, but the views from above make it worthwhile.
The castle features a striking belvedere extending across three facades, built in 1620 by Antoine de Roquelaure for his wife Suzanne de Bassabat. This three-sided viewing structure is an unusual architectural solution and adds to the site's distinctive character.
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