From a ruin to one of France’s most beautiful villages
At the start of the 20th century the village of Belcastel could only be reached via difficult tracks. The still formidable remains of the château fort were discovered standing proudly on the vertiginous rocks that dominate the village’s houses.
It was in 1974 that Fernand Pouillon, one of the greatest architects of his time, bought the château in ruins and immediately undertook its restoration. Thanks to his devotion and the willing activity of all those who helped him, including the population of the village, the château was restored to its former glory. This extraordinary initiative was encouraged by the inhabitants of the village who, following his example, set about restoring and breathing life back into the ensemble of the village's houses, communal buildings and restaurants.
But this does not mean it is a museum village. Contemporary artists supported him such as Casimir Ferrer, author of an extraordinary Way of the Cross on exhibition in the church, and all those who now take part in the periodical exhibitions. Thanks to all its population, Belcastel really is one of the plus beaux villages de France (most beautiful villages in France).
Visit the village of Belcastel
