Nestled in the heart of the Auvergne region (France), the castle of Villeneuve-Lembron is one of the most remarkable examples of transitional architecture between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance in France.
Built at the end of the 15th century by Rigault d’Aureille, advisor and chamberlain to several kings of France, this edifice combines the defensive forms inherited from medieval fortresses with the elegance and refinement of the first pleasure castles. Listed as a historic monument since 1926, it contains a wealth of artistic and historical treasures.
Article produced in collaboration with the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region
Summary
The history of the castle of Villeneuve-Lembron
Construction of the castle began around 1480, on the initiative of Rigault d’Aureille (1455-1517), maître d’hôtel in the service of kings Louis XI, Charles VIII, Louis XII and François I. This privileged position at court enabled him to acquire a solid fortune and assert his prestige by building a residence worthy of his rank.
The castle stands on the grounds of Villeneuve, in the Allier valley. Although designed at a time when military threats persisted, its architecture already reflected changing mentalities: instead of focusing solely on the defensive aspect, Rigault d’Aureille designed a place of residence, representation and comfort. The large rooms, open galleries and painted decorations reflect the desire to make Villeneuve-Lembron a modern residence, at the crossroads of two eras.
Architecture and landscaping
Castle of Villeneuve-Lembron takes the form of a quadrangular plan, flanked by four cylindrical corner towers. This layout is reminiscent of medieval fortified castles, but the whole is embellished with large lattice windows and sculpted decorations, typical of the nascent Renaissance.
Inside, the castle surprises with its vast rooms adorned with remarkable wall paintings, dating from the late 15th and early 16th centuries. These frescoes depict both religious themes (biblical scenes), heraldic (coats of arms and mottos) and historical, highlighting Rigault d’Aureille’s links with the French monarchy.
The dwelling is also distinguished by its monumental fireplaces and exposed-beam ceilings. The combination of refined decor and still-military elements (moats, defensive towers) perfectly illustrates the transition period between fortress and pleasure palace.
The castle through the ages
After Rigault d’Aureille’s death, the castle passed through the hands of various families, including Gaspard de Montmorin (in 1577), Governor of Auvergne and Isaac Dufour (in 1643), Treasurer of France, both of whom continued to embellish the castle.
In the 19th century, like many historic residences, Villeneuve-Lembron went through a period of relative neglect. The last owner, MP Georges Texier, sold the castle to the State in 1937.
Today administered by the Centre des monuments nationaux, the castle is open to the public all year round.
A cultural and heritage tour
Castle of Villeneuve-Lembron offers a parcours through its furnished and decorated rooms. The frescoes and paintings, unparalleled in any other castle, are one of the highlights of the visit.
Admire the boutique!
Before you even begin your tour of the castle, take time to admire the room that today houses the ticket office and store, and whose ceiling is covered with sublime paintings depicting numerous horses. These were the former stables, probably decorated for the wedding of Gaspard de Montmorin and Claude de Chazeron in 1581.
Temporary exhibitions, animations and guided tours also highlight the historical, artistic and architectural context of the site. Visits thus provide a better understanding of the daily life of an Auvergne lord in the late Middle Ages.
The historic route of Auvergne castles
When you think of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, you don’t necessarily think of its castles. Yet the region boasts over 500 of them! Of these, some 50 are grouped together in the Route Historique des Châteaux d’Auvergne, opening their doors to the public and offering numerous cultural and festive events. So make the most of your stay in Auvergne to continue your journey along the castle road!
Gourmet addresses around the Villeneuve-Lembron castle
Extend your visit to the castle with a gourmet escapade. There are plenty of good places to visit in the Villeneuve-Lembron area:
Origines by Adrien Descouls – Le Broc (1 Michelin star)
At the top of the village of Le Broc, Adrien Descouls’ gastronomic restaurant offers inventive cuisine that sublimates Auvergne produce. In a modern, refined setting, each plate reflects the exceptional expertise rewarded by a Michelin star. It’s also a great place to stay for a quiet break with a beautiful view of the Auvergne mountains.
Rue du Clos de la Chaux, Le Broc
https://restaurant-origines.fr/fr/
Bistrot Basalte – Le Broc
A more casual version of chef Adrien Descouls’ Bistrot Basalte features generous bistronomic cuisine inspired by local flavors. Seasonal menus, a carefully crafted menu and a fine selection of regional wines create a refined, convivial experience.
Rue du Clos de la Chaux, Le Broc
https://restaurant-origines.fr/fr/bistrot-basalte.html
Le Boudes la Vigne – Boudes
Just 10 minutes from Issoire, Annabelle and Christian have been welcoming gourmets to their cosy bistro in the heart of a winegrowing village for 30 years. Their meticulous cuisine, awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, celebrates tradition and conviviality.
7 place de la Mairie, Boudes
https://www.le-boudes-la-vigne.com/
Le P’tit Roseau – Issoire
This intimate restaurant offers seasonal cuisine made exclusively from fresh produce. The enthusiastic chef prepares flavorful dishes in a warm and inviting setting.
2 avenue de la Gare, Issoire
https://lepetitroseau.fr/
Balad’O’Papilles – Issoire
A 1h30 gourmet stroll through Issoire, punctuated by stops at local shops to sample cheeses, charcuterie and regional sweets. An original way to combine heritage discovery and culinary delights.
https://baladopapilles.wordpress.com/
Domaine Annie Sauvat – Boudes
A passionate winegrower, Annie Sauvat offers tastings, vineyard walks and picnics in the heart of the Auvergne vineyards. This year, the estate is enriching its offer with new experiences: yoga, storytelling walks and botanical workshops.
30 route de Dauzat, Boudes
https://www.sauvat-vins.com/
GAEC du Bois Joli – Saint-Diéry
On this family farm in the Parc des Volcans d’Auvergne, the Chassard family has been producing authentic AOP farmhouse Saint-Nectaire cheese since the 1950s. Take a tour to discover the know-how behind this emblematic cheese, and taste an exceptional product.
La Chaux, Saint-Diéry
http://saint-nectaire-boisjoli.com/
L’Accueillette des Pensées – Rentières
In her old farmhouse, the designer picks and transforms plants and fruit into herbal teas, jams, syrups and homemade jams. She also offers nature outings to introduce visitors to edible wild flora.
Le Bourg, 17 rue du Pirou, Rentières
https://accueillette.fr/
Distillery of Les Scories – Brassac-les-Mines
15 minutes from Villeneuve, Quentin Sicard, a young agricultural engineer, makes rums, gins, whiskies and liqueurs from local produce and Cézallier volcanic water. An atypical distillery set up on a former mining site.
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Drink in moderation.
4 Route de la Combelle, Brassac-les-Mines
https://distilleriescories.fr/
Interactive map
Find all the information mentioned in this article on this map :
Practical information
Adress:
Villeneuve-Lembron castle
63340 Villeneuve-Lembron
Opening hours :
- May 15 to September 15
10am – 12:30pm and 2pm – 6:30pm
Closed Mondays
Guided tours only: 10:30am, 11:30am, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm and 5pm. - September 16 to May 14
10am – 12:30pm and 2pm – 5:30pm
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
Guided tours only: contact 04 73 96 41 64 for tour times.
Official website:
https://www.chateau-villeneuve-lembron.fr/
Prices:
€7
Free for under-26s
Article produced in collaboration with the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region
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