The history of this medieval fortress dates back to the 8th century, when the villagers of Belcastel built a medieval chapel to worship in. The chapel continued to be extended over the next two centuries, and thus this castle in Aveyron was resurrected.

From the 10th to the 14th century, the lords of Belcastel discreetly prospered and extended their power in Quercy. As the fortress took on its full military significance, it weathered all the conflicts of the period, finally changing hands during the Hundred Years' War. From Belcastel, to Jean II d'Armagnac, via Edward III King of England and Charles V King of France, in 1393 the castle finally became the property of Guillaume de Saunhac, faithful squire and knight to the Counts of Armagnac. After the tumult of this century-long conflict, the Saunhac family marked their power and wealth by fortifying and modernizing the château and building a bridge and church in the village. These buildings still add to the charm of this village, listed as one of France’s official "most beautiful villages".

At the end of the 16th century, the last Saunhac heir abandoned the castle to go to the New World. His descendants eventually settled in New Orleans. It was not until 100 years later that a local resident acquired the castle. Unfortunately, she sold the stone facings of the various openings of the building, leading the castle to irreparable ruin.

In 1973 the remains of Château de Belcastel were discovered by the acclaimed French architect Fernand Pouillon. He was enchanted by the property, and was inspired to restore the fortress by hand over the following eight years. Ten Algerian stone masons quarried stones from a hill above the Château, and helped to erect all of the towers and walls without the use of cranes or machines. Glaziers also worked and lived on the property, creating 85 windows with XVIth century hand-painted center panes.

Upon the triumphant completion of the restoration, Pouillon set up permanent residence within the castle. The rebirth of their village’s gem encouraged the inhabitants of Belcastel to extend the restoration to their beautiful but aged roads & homes as well.

Two decades after Pouillon’s death, the Château’s current owner purchased the fortress, and began transforming the structure into one that was safe and welcoming to visitors. Now, for the first time in its long history, the castle is open to the public.

There is now much to see at the Château de Belcastel, including its original moat, several rooms, 5 courtyards, and unrivaled panoramic views of the Aveyron river.

The Château de Belcastel is truly a unique collaboration of art and architecture, and of the present and past.