Castelnau-Bretenoux

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Shortened history of the castle:

Its construction took place over several centuries, from the twelfth century to the seventeenth century. Its origin dates back to Hugues de Castelnau, who had built a wall around his area. He is the ancestor of a family line very powerful barony subservient to the counts of Toulouse and who thrives in a region rich in agricultural resources.

In the medieval period, we find the square tower and a stately home. It was then redeveloped in the fifteenth century to accommodate the burgeoning artillery. It will be taken by Henry II but will revert ownership of the barons of Castelnau at the end of the Hundred Years War.

When the last Castelnau died in 1715, the castle is no longer maintained and is deteriorating for nearly two centuries. In 1860, the castle belongs to a Mr. Dubousquet that for a moment the idea to place a monastery. It is a historical monument in 1862 (and later the entire site will be included). In 1895 he was bought by Jean Mouliérat, Parisian comic opera singer, who began its restoration. In addition, Mouliérat is a collector who collects number of furniture and objects of religious art (paintings and sculptures). You can now visit seven parts of this fortress, restored and furnished in medieval style.

Opening times and aditionnal information:

2 May to 30 June: 10am-12.30am and 2pm-6.30pm
July 1 to August 31: 10am-7pm
September and April: 10am-12.30am and 2pm-5.30pm
1 October to 31 March: 10.30am-12.30am and 2pm-5.30pm (closed on Tuesdays)
Last admission 60 minutes before

Closed
1st January, 1st May, 1st November
November 11 and December 25

Full price: 7 €
Reduced price: 4.50 €
groups: 5,50 € (from 20 persons)

Free:
Under 18 (accompanied by an adult)
18-25 years (nationals of 27 countries of the European Union and non-European residents regularly on French territory)
Disabled person and their companion
Jobseeker