Located on a hill, on the border between Périgord and Agenais, the castle of Biron is the seat of one of the four baronies of the Périgord (together with Bourdeilles, Beynac and Mareuil).
Over the years, this primitive fortress has undergone multiple changes. Each century has left its mark there, giving a particular appeal to this exceptional architectural ensemble.
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| Chateau de Biron |
But the Biron Castle is a must-see site in more than one way: not only it is stunningly beautiful in its impressive structure, but it has a long history!
It belonged for 8 centuries to the Gontaut-Biron family, which was also one of the 4 baronies of the Périgord. Indeed, the first lord of the castle was called Vital 1er de Gontaut (12th century) and participated in the construction of the building. Many lords and barons have succeeded, but Gaston VI de Gontaut (15th century) and his sons Pons and Armand de Gontaut (15th-16th century) were the most important figures.
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| Chateau de Biron |
Gaston VI was the baron de Biron, but also the first baron of Périgord. Unfortunately he was not lucky because he had the castle taken by the British who put it on fire (do not worry, today it is in excellent conditions, although it retains some reddish shades within its walls).
The eldest son, Pons de Gontaut (late 15th - early 16th century), nicknamed Poncet for its small size, had the castle chapel built (inspired by Italian palaces). This is a masterpiece of flamboyant Gothic art, adorned with numerous sculptures.
His second son, Armand de Gontaut (16th century) had a completely different vocation, and became bishop of Sarlat. In the exercise of this function, he undertook the construction of the present Cathedral of Sarlat, although it will be finished after his death. He then had the churches of Issigeac and Biron built.
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| Chateau de Biron |
All these centuries and the various owners who have succeeded each other have left their mark on this beautiful castle, and every room and every architectural detail evoke its vicissitudes: the 12th century keep, the two-story chapel, the Renaissance apartments, the imposing vaulted kitchens and the State Hall.
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| Chateau de Biron |
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| Chateau de Biron |
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| Chateau de Biron |
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| Chateau de Biron |
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| Chateau de Biron |
The castle is also characterized by its excesses: more than 500m² of wooden floors in the Versailles style, one hectare of frame roof and 10 monumental fireplaces.
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