Description:

In a strategic location, the castle of Bonneval was constructed in the year 930 as one of a line of fortresses that defended the Aquitaine frontier. It was already property of a knight of Bonneval. At each corner the Castle has a big round tower among which the Donjon is the most amazing one; it has an original shape made of tree sections.

One enters the Castle crossing the draw-bridge. The west façade of the construction is remarkable because of the beautiful terrace that was built in 1720 by Broussaud. Large windows allow the sun to enter, bringing light and heat inside the main apartments and salons that open on this side. The East side has not changed since Guguesclin in 1360. There are no windows or doors, only very small archers. The only time the family lost its ownership was when Duguesclin entered the fortress by surprise, conquered it and offered it to his friend Pierre de la Roche Rousse.

 

This situation lasted from 1360 to 1363. In 1363 Aymeric de Bonneval recovered his castle by subduing to the King of France, Charles V. From 930 to our days the castle has been a property of the Bonneval family, except for those 3 years.This magnificent and interesting fortress is still now a property of the Marquis Bernard de Bonneval. A thousand years of history continues.

 

From the Bonneval Castle Website (English)

 

The castle is open to visitors every day from June 15th to September 15th. July and August from 14h30 to 19h. June and September from 14h30 to 18h. For school holidays please contact our Tourist Office. Visits of groups 20 persons minimum, all around the year by appointment.

 

Prices of visits: 10€ adults, 6€ students, 5€ children.
Group price: 7€. for 20 persons minimum.

Phone numbers for informations:
(Tourist Office) (335) 55 75 28 46
(care take) (335) 55 75 24 15