Chalus Castle

Chalus Castle, locally known as Château de Chalus, lies in the village of the same name in the Puy-de-Dôme department in France.

The origins of the castle date back at least to the 10th century, when a fortified site or motte stood on the hill, overlooking the Allier Valley. The earliest known lord was Guy de Chalus, mentioned in 967, who is believed to have been related to the counts of Auvergne. The castle became the center of the seigneurie of Chalus and the seat of the House of Chalus, an important noble family in Auvergne.

By the end of the 13th century, the lordship was divided among several heirs. As a result, the fortress itself was split into two separate castles on the same hill: a southern castle and a northern castle, built on the older part of the site. The two complexes were separated by a chapel that later became the village's parish church.

During the Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453), the fortress suffered significant damage. The two castles that made up the Chalus stronghold were captured and burned by mercenary captain Aymerigot Marchès in the late 14th century.

The southern castle remained in the possession of the Chalus family until 1667, when it was sold to Nicolas Villers. In the following centuries, the property changed hands several times, including to the families Gioux, Raudot, and Dufour. The Dufour family kept the castle until 1797, after which it was transferred to the Tassy de Montluc family and later to the Chardon du Ranquet family.

Today, the northern castle has almost entirely disappeared, leaving only the southern castle, which mostly dates from the 13th century with its strong round keep, encircled by a polygonal bailey.

Chalus Castle is currently private property and can only be visited on special occasions, such as European Heritage Days. A very nice castle.

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