Château de Roquetaillade

Castle in Bordeaux

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Pline

Château de Roquetaillade is a stunning medieval fortress located in Mazères, near Bordeaux, France. The castle’s name, which means “carved in the rock,” reflects its historical roots, as the site has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The first fortification was built by Charlemagne in the 8th century, but the current structure dates back to 1306, when Cardinal de la Mothe, nephew of Pope Clement V, constructed the “new castle” with permission from King Edward I of England. This fortress, designed with six towers and a central keep, showcases the pinnacle of medieval defensive architecture before the advent of gunpowder.

Over the centuries, Château de Roquetaillade evolved from a military stronghold into a noble residence. In 1599, the Lansac family transformed the castle’s first floor, replacing arrow slits with windows and converting guard rooms into elegant living spaces. However, the most significant restoration occurred in the 19th century when renowned architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc modernized the castle. His work, which bridged Gothic art and Art Nouveau, resulted in extraordinary interior decorations, including furnishings and paintings that were later classified as French Heritage.

Today, Château de Roquetaillade remains privately owned and has been inhabited by the same family for over 700 years. It is one of the most visited castles in the Bordeaux region, attracting tourists eager to explore its rich history and architectural grandeur. Visitors can admire the medieval curtain walls, the barbican, and the picturesque surroundings, including the Pesquey stream and the Crampet pigeon loft. Guided tours, often led by the owners, provide an intimate glimpse into the castle’s fascinating past and its continued legacy.

Beyond its historical significance, Château de Roquetaillade is a cultural treasure that embodies the evolution of French architecture and aristocratic life. Its blend of medieval fortifications and 19th-century artistic renovations makes it a unique landmark in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

The Château de Roquetaillade appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bordeaux!

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Visiting Château de Roquetaillade

Hours:

July & August: Open daily from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last tour at 5:00 PM.

Easter to November 1st: Tours are available every afternoon at 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

November to Easter: Tours are held on Sundays, bank holidays, and Bordeaux school holidays at 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

Christmas holidays: Daily tours at 3:00 PM, except on December 25th.

Price:

€10.50

Address: Chateau Fort de Roquetaillade, Roquetaillade, Mazères, France

Official Website