Explore the Château de La Rochefoucauld
Nicknamed the "Pearl of the Angoumois," the Château de La Rochefoucauld is one of the finest monuments in Charente.
With its medieval towers, Renaissance galleries, and impressive grand staircase, it holds many surprises in store!
Located in La Rochefoucauld-en-Angoumois just 15 minutes from our holiday home in Charente this family-owned castle offers a tour rich in history.
You cannot miss its majestic silhouette overlooking the Tardoire Valley! The castle has belonged to the same family for over 1,000 years a remarkable span of time.
Its architecture reflects several different eras.
The 11th-century keep recalls its medieval origins, while Renaissance-era renovations gave it a much more elegant appearance.
From the 16th century onwards, François II de La Rochefoucauld commissioned the construction of magnificent three-level arcaded galleries, inspired by Italian palaces.
One of the castle's most fascinating features is its monumental grand staircase, boasting 108 steps.
Look up to discover a stunning spiral structure rising toward a palm-shaped vaulted ceiling.
Its design is traditionally attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, although this connection has never been definitively proven.
Be sure to take the time to admire the Renaissance galleries and their elegant arches surrounding the inner courtyard.
The tour continues through the historic rooms, where furniture, portraits, and collections bear witness to the lives of the generations that have inhabited the site.
The libraries are another highlight, featuring thousands of antique volumes, encyclopedias, maps, and precious archives.
In summer, the "From Moat to Attic" tour offers a chance to explore areas usually off-limits to the public: underground passages, rock-hewn caves, and the castle's timber roof structures.
Practical information
Rates
Adults: €12
Children (ages 4–12): €6
Under 4s: Free
Opening hours
Open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
To extend your exploration of the Charente region's heritage, the Logis de Sigogne welcomes you just 15 minutes from the Château de La Rochefoucauld.
Housed in a former medieval residence dating back to the 13th and 15th centuries listed as a Historic Monument and awarded the "4 épis" (4-ear) rating by Gîtes de France our characterful gîte also boasts a unique history...
The Logis de Sigogne can accommodate between 6 and 15 guests; our various packages promise an unforgettable stay with family or friends!
With its medieval towers, Renaissance galleries, and impressive grand staircase, it holds many surprises in store!
Located in La Rochefoucauld-en-Angoumois just 15 minutes from our holiday home in Charente this family-owned castle offers a tour rich in history.
The Château de La Rochefoucauld: A Thousand Years of History
You cannot miss its majestic silhouette overlooking the Tardoire Valley! The castle has belonged to the same family for over 1,000 years a remarkable span of time.
Its architecture reflects several different eras.
The 11th-century keep recalls its medieval origins, while Renaissance-era renovations gave it a much more elegant appearance.
From the 16th century onwards, François II de La Rochefoucauld commissioned the construction of magnificent three-level arcaded galleries, inspired by Italian palaces.
A Renaissance Staircase Among France's Finest
One of the castle's most fascinating features is its monumental grand staircase, boasting 108 steps.
Look up to discover a stunning spiral structure rising toward a palm-shaped vaulted ceiling.
Its design is traditionally attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, although this connection has never been definitively proven.
Be sure to take the time to admire the Renaissance galleries and their elegant arches surrounding the inner courtyard.
Libraries and secret passages: the castle's treasures
The tour continues through the historic rooms, where furniture, portraits, and collections bear witness to the lives of the generations that have inhabited the site.
The libraries are another highlight, featuring thousands of antique volumes, encyclopedias, maps, and precious archives.
In summer, the "From Moat to Attic" tour offers a chance to explore areas usually off-limits to the public: underground passages, rock-hewn caves, and the castle's timber roof structures.
Practical information
Rates
Adults: €12
Children (ages 4–12): €6
Under 4s: Free
Opening hours
Open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Staying near the Château de La Rochefoucauld
To extend your exploration of the Charente region's heritage, the Logis de Sigogne welcomes you just 15 minutes from the Château de La Rochefoucauld.
Housed in a former medieval residence dating back to the 13th and 15th centuries listed as a Historic Monument and awarded the "4 épis" (4-ear) rating by Gîtes de France our characterful gîte also boasts a unique history...
The Logis de Sigogne can accommodate between 6 and 15 guests; our various packages promise an unforgettable stay with family or friends!
