Château de Castelnaud

The Château de Castelnaud is a medieval fortress in the commune of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, overlooking the river Dordogne in Périgord, southern France. It was erected to face its rival, the Château de Beynac. The castle has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and has been involved in several significant events, including the Albigensian Crusade and the Hundred Years' War. Today, the restored castle is a private property open to the public and houses a museum of medieval warfare, featuring reconstructions of siege engines, mangonneaux, and trebuchets. The castle is listed as a monument historique by the French Ministry of Culture. It offers a magnificent panoramic view over the Dordogne Valley and has a great view over the château and village of Beynac to the north and the hanging gardens of Marqueyssac opposite in the curve of the river. The castle is also devoted to the art of war in the Middle Ages and has a large collection of weapons and armour. It is a popular tourist destination and one of the most visited sites in Périgord Noir. The castle is suitable for families, with activities such as a game booklet for children and a tavern-creperie