Castle Ravel is located on the town of the same name, in the Puy-de-Dome, 28 km east of Clermont-Ferrand.
It was erected from the twelfth for the lord of the place, then becomes royal property under Philip III, called "the Hardi", king of France from 1270 to 1285. Over the centuries, many prestigious owners succeed each other, the domain belonging to the families of Chauvigny, Amboise, Rochefoucauld, Combourcier du Terrail and Estaing.
In 1806, it was bought by Charles de Riberolles Beaucène and his descendants occupy the premises until 2014, when it is acquired by the decorator Michel Charrière and his partner Joseph Achkar.
While retaining a medieval part with massive and defensive elements such as a 13th century dungeon and octagonal towers, as well as a Gothic chapel, the building was remodeled in the 18th century in respect of its architecture, while becoming a remains more comfortable. Thus, the large courtyard facade is based on the medieval towers.
The castle, the chapel as the terraces with their retaining wall and the small park, designed by Le Nôtre, from which we have a remarkable view of the plain of Limagne and the Monts Dore, are protected as historical monuments since 1958.
The interiors (State Hall, coat of arms, large gallery...), their furniture and decoration (paintings, woodwork, tapestries Aubusson) have been well preserved.
This magnificent castle is also famous for being the setting for the filming of the movie "Les Choristes".
Guided tours from May 1st to August 31st from Tuesday to Sunday at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm and 5pm and from September 1st to April 30th on Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm, 3pm, 4pm and 5pm. Price: 4.50 and 8 €. Information on +33 4 73 62 95 15.
