chateau-fenelon-dordogne
Fénelon Castle: Medieval fortress and literary heritage in the Dordogne
The Château de Fénelon , located in Sainte-Mondane in the Dordogne, just 20 km from Domme , is a medieval fortress dating from the 12th century , remodeled during the Renaissance . Listed as a Historic Monument , it offers a unique experience combining history, architecture, and literature. This castle, associated with one of the most famous French writers and thinkers, François de Fénelon (1651-1715), archbishop, writer and tutor to the Dukes of Burgundy, is a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts.
A rich and fascinating history
Built in 1220 by the Fénelon family to control the Dordogne valley, the castle was a defensive fortress with crenellated towers and a triple enclosure . Over the centuries, particularly in the 15th and 16th centuries , the castle evolved into a noble residence with Renaissance- style additions, such as a spiral staircase and an arcaded gallery . This castle is closely linked to the history of François de Fénelon , who was born here in 1651 and spent his childhood there. This great man of letters, author of the famous "Adventures of Telemachus" and critic of the court of Louis XIV, found in this place a deep source of inspiration for his writings and educational ideas.
A place full of culture and history
Today, the Château de Fénelon is a vibrant place, combining historical heritage and nature . Perched on a hill, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley , ideal for an outdoor stroll. The interiors of the castle, richly furnished and entirely period, allow a total immersion in the past. Visitors can discover exceptional historical collections , such as:
- The salon of honor , with portraits of Fénelon and 17th century tapestries.
- Fénelon's birthplace , where one can immerse oneself in his childhood and his mystical education.
- The reconstructed library , which houses rare editions of Telemachus and precious documents on the writer's life.
- The Renaissance kitchen , equipped with period utensils and a monumental fireplace .
- The 15th century chapel , decorated with restored frescoes and stained glass windows .
Accessibility and Practical Information
- Address : Château de Fénelon, 24250 Sainte-Mondane, Dordogne. GPS:N44.851° E01.251° .
- Access : 20 km from Domme (approximately 15 minutes by car via D57/D703 ) and 10 km from Sarlat . The castle is also located 30 km from Les Eyzies .
- Car : Recommended . The castle has free parking (disabled parking spaces available). The winding but well-maintained road leads directly to the fortress.
- Opening Hours : The castle is open to visitors from April to November 2025 , providing an ideal time to discover this historic site in a peaceful setting.
- Duration of the visit : The visit, whether guided or self-guided , lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours . Reservations are recommended during the high season (July-August) to avoid queues.
Why visit the Château de Fénelon?
The Château de Fénelon is a must-see destinationfor lovers of history , literature and nature . Less crowded than other iconic sites like Château de Beynac or Château de Castelnaud , it offers a more intimate and authentic experience. Its rich heritage, tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Dordogne Valley make it a perfect place for a cultural getaway .
Ideally located just 20 km from Domme , this castle combines perfectly with a canoe trip on the Dordogne or a visit to the Château des Milandes , dedicated to Joséphine Baker , located 10 km away. The site is perfect for an outing with family or friends, offering culture, relaxation and exploration.