The Château de Pierregourde is located in the town of Gilhac-et-Bruzac, in the Ardèche, 20 km south-west of Valence.
Built in the 13th century on a rocky outcrop at an altitude of 600 m, it was intended to monitor the outskirts of this small rural area. The peasants of the surroundings had the right to come and take refuge there in case of danger against the payment of a right in kind (in the form of a hen) to the lords of Pierregourde…
The building was affected however during the Wars of Religion, and even before the Revolution, becoming uncomfortable and less useful, it was transformed into a stone quarry. The site, admittedly protected as historical monuments, is now in ruins. We can only distinguish the bases of the walls and some elements of the main building.
However, the result is a romantic atmosphere and from these remains, today's visitors enjoy magnificent views.
Information on +33 4 75 40 83 89.
