The castle of Cléron is located in the town of the same name, in the department of Doubs, 25 km south of Besançon.
It was originally a fortified castle built on the foundations of a castrum in 1320 by Lord Humbert de Cléron. This one, vassal of the Count of Burgundy, gave himself the means to monitor a ford and then a wooden bridge over the course of the Loue, a stage of the salt road in Franche-Comté (which links Besançon to Salins- the baths).
Highly strategic to ensure the prosperity of the region, the castle was not really affected during the Ten Years' War although the village was devastated in 1639 and 1641 by Swedish mercenaries employed by Richelieu who wanted to reconquer the county.
However, changes are made. The 14th century dwelling and its square tower, perpendicular to the river, were completed in the 15th century by a wing overlooking the river and a round tower (known as the Tour de la Folle) and new works took place in the 18th and 19th centuries. On this date (after 1840), elements were added to the original defensive elements (machicolation, loopholes) giving the site its medieval appearance. According to the fashion of the time, the same applies to the interior decoration…
This beautiful castle sitting on its promontory is surrounded by a park where sculpted lions and other decorations have been implanted.
Private property listed in the Inventory, the castle is not open to the public except for its gardens, in July and August (every day except Monday). Free tour. Price: 3 euros. Information on +33 3 81 62 21 50.
