Chalucet: The Limousin's Awesome Medieval Fortress

Just minutes south of Limoges, jutting dramatically from the green countryside, the ruins of Châlucet make for an awesome day-trip. Situated high on a hilltop, the 13th century castle is visible for miles around. It is an impressive structure, a formidable display of power dating from the war-plagued Moyen Age (of which I've become a bit obsessed).


We climbed the steep hill for a closer inspection. The views are absolutely spectacular; the fortress overlooks pastures, moss-draped woodlands, and a fast-moving river-- a landscape quite typical of this beautiful region. The restoration efforts have been diligent and careful, as is the custom in France when it comes to national heritage. The front wall of the castle has been masterfully preserved; back in the day, the clever architects created a facade that appeared to be layers of thick turreted walls. An optical illusion of fortifications (where there weren't).


Take a look at the crumbling tower (pictured). Inside, you can see the ruins of a spiral staircase, its stones seemingly suspended in air as they curve upward towards the sky.