Chateau de Beynac
Perched on a sheer 150-metre limestone cliff above the Dordogne in Périgord Noir, Château de Beynac has commanded the valley since the 12th century. During the Hundred Years' War it was France's frontline stronghold: the Dordogne marked the boundary between French and English territory, with English-held Château de Castelnaud glowering from the opposite bank. Double crenellated walls, double moats — one deepening a natural ravine — and double barbicans reflect that era of sustained siege warfare.
A 13th-century square keep anchors the fortress, while Renaissance additions brought sculpted fireplaces and a chapel covered with 15th-century frescoes: a Pietà, Saint Christopher, and a Last Supper. Classified as a historic monument since 1944, it attracts around 125,000 visitors annually.
Visitor information
- Location
- Beynac-et-Cazenac, Dordogne
- Country
- France
- Tier
- B (Great castles)
- Coordinates
- 44.8406, 1.1467
- Official site
- http://chateau-beynac.com/
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Chateau de Beynac?
- Chateau de Beynac is in Beynac-et-Cazenac, Dordogne, France (approximately 44.8406, 1.1467).
- Can you visit Chateau de Beynac?
- Yes — Chateau de Beynac is open to visitors; see the official site at http://chateau-beynac.com/ for hours and tickets.
- What tier is Chateau de Beynac on the Castle Atlas?
- Chateau de Beynac is rated B tier on the Castle Atlas — Great castles.
- What can you see at Chateau de Beynac?
- Perched on a sheer 150-metre limestone cliff above the Dordogne in Périgord Noir, Château de Beynac has commanded the valley since the 12th century. During the Hundred Years' War it was France's frontline stronghold: the Dordogne marked the boundary between French and English territory, with English-held Château de Castelnaud glowering from the opposite bank. Double crenellated walls, double moats — one deepening a natural ravine — and double barbicans reflect that era of sustained siege warfare.