Château de Puymartin: History & Legend in a beautiful natural setting Château de Puymartin: History & Legend in a beautiful natural setting

Just a stone’s throw from the medieval town of Sarlat lies the Château de Puymartin. This isn’t just another pretty castle—it’s a place brimming with history, mystery, and unique experiences that make every visit unforgettable. Known for its stunning architecture and the legendary White Lady, this château is a must-see for anyone exploring the Dordogne.

Back in the days

The story of Château de Puymartin begins in the 13th century, around 1269, when it was constructed as a strategic fortress. The castle’s history is as tumultuous as the era it was built in. During the Hundred Years’ War, it became a key player in the conflict between France and England. In 1357, it was captured by English mercenaries who wreaked havoc in the region. The castle was almost entirely destroyed, leaving it in ruins for nearly a century.

But the story doesn’t end there. In 1450, Radulphe de Saint-Clar took on the challenge of restoring the château, turning it into a fortified home. His efforts were part of a broader strategy to counter the influence of a powerful rival, the Lord of Beynac. The Saint-Clar family, through persistence and a bit of luck, managed to hold onto the property, even using it as a base during the Wars of Religion in the 16th century. Raymond de Saint-Clar, a fervent Catholic, used Puymartin as his stronghold and defended it against Protestant forces, earning a reputation as a fearless leader.

The most significant renovations to the castle took place in the late 19th century under the direction of the Marquis Marc Roffignac de Carbonnier de Marzac. He poured a fortune into restoring the château, and thanks to his efforts, Puymartin was not only preserved but also transformed into the splendid residence you see today. His daughter’s marriage to Count Jacques de Montbron in 1920 ensured that the château would remain in the family, and it is still owned by their descendants.

Architectural Highlights

Walking up to the Château de Puymartin, visitors are immediately struck by its fairytale-like appearance. The castle’s architecture is a blend of styles, reflecting the various phases of its long history.

The central keep, flanked by two towers, still carries the marks of its medieval origins. The façade, with its elegant mullioned windows, showcases the refinements made during the 19th-century renovations.

Inside, the castle is just as impressive. The rooms are filled with treasures from the past, including period furniture, tapestries from the renowned Aubusson and Gobelins workshops, and a fascinating collection of 17th-century paintings.

One of the highlights is the mythological cabinet, a small room decorated with grisaille paintings depicting scenes from Greek mythology. This unique decor, listed as a Historic Monument, offers a glimpse into the tastes and interests of the château’s former inhabitants.

As you explore the château, you’ll notice how each room tells a story. From the richly decorated reception rooms to the marquise’s private apartments, you get a sense of the daily life in the heydays of a great Périgord family.

The Legend of the White Lady

Of course, no visit to Château de Puymartin would be complete without delving into the story of its most famous resident: the White Lady. The legend dates back to the 16th century, when Thérèse de Saint-Clar, wife of Jean de Saint-Clar, was caught in the arms of her lover. Furious, her husband killed the lover and imprisoned Thérèse in a small room in the castle’s north tower, where she spent the rest of her days. According to the tale, her spirit still roams the castle, appearing as a pale, ghostly figure wandering the corridors at night.

Over the years, many have claimed to see her. Count Henri de Montbron himself reported several sightings of the spectre. Guests who have stayed in the château have described waking up to see a white silhouette gliding across the room. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the tale of the White Lady brings an added layer of intrigue and mystery to the château’s already rich history.

Immersive Experiences

Château de Puymartin isn’t just about looking at old paintings and reading plaques. The château offers a variety of immersive experiences that make history come alive.One of the most popular is “The Mystery of the Lady in White,”an escape game that takes you through the château’s rooms as you solve puzzles and uncover the secrets of Thérèse de Saint-Clar. It’s a fun way to explore the castle while testing your wits.

For those who prefer a more theatrical experience, “An Evening with the Marquise” invites you to step into the past and meet the characters who once called Puymartin home. Through a mix of storytelling and performance, you’ll learn about the château’s history from the people who lived it. And for food lovers, there’s the Prestige Dinner, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by chef Vincent Lucas, accompanied by stories and entertainment that bring the château’s past to life.

Dining at La Table de Vincent

From July to September, La Table de Vincent, a pop-up restaurant located in the château’s gardens, offers visitors the chance to enjoy fresh, local cuisine in a unique setting.

Chef Vincent Lucascreates dishes that highlight the best of the region’s produce, from hearty salads to delicious desserts. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick snack or settling down for a leisurely meal, the restaurant is the perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the château.

Events and Celebrations

If you’re planning a special event, the Château de Puymartin might just be the perfect venue. The château’s stunning architecture and beautiful grounds provide the perfect backdrop for weddings, corporate events, and parties. With space for up to 800 guests, the château can accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations.

The events team at Puymartin is experienced in creating tailor-made experiences that suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a themed dinner, a team-building activity, or a live performance, they can help you bring your vision to life.

The château’s layout is versatile, with plenty of rooms that can be adapted for catering, dressing rooms, or even staging. So whether you’re planning a wedding in the castle’s courtyard or a gala dinner in the grand hall, your event is sure to be a memorable one.