The History of Château Clerbaud
Origins of the Château
Château Clerbaud was built in the late 12th to early 13th century by Guy Clerbaud, a knight under the Barony of Montmorillon.
Originally constructed as a defensive fortress, it was once far larger than the romantic country château seen today. Throughout the château there are many historical features that have survived through the centuries.
Everything from 800 year old doorways to 600 year old oak beams and Knights Templar symbols.
Centuries of Change
Over the centuries the château passed through the hands of many noble families and interesting people.
As defensive needs declined, sections of the original fortress were dismantled and rebuilt as farm buildings, leaving a smaller residence set within extensive parkland. In the 16th century a pigeonaire was built, in the 19th century a wind turbine.
There still survive parts of a hydraulic lift that was installed in the château by Fèlix Edoux. Edoux was a friend of Gustave Eiffel and he installed the first lift in the Eiffel Tower in 1869.
Restoration and Renewal
After decades without maintenance, restoration began in 2019. The project has involved complete rewiring & plumbing, structural repairs, restoration of original windows and shutters and careful preservation of historic features by our considerate and talented team. It is a huge undertaking with breath-taking results. Château Clerbaud is sympathetically being brought into the 21st century and protected for the future.
Follow the restoration progress on our Youtube channel
A Living Château
The aim of the restoration is not to create a modern, santised château or museum but to preserve an ancient château, retaining all of the architectural features. It will be a living château set within a living landscape and fully prepared for a self sufficient and green future.
Not only is it our home but it can also be your home. You can live in it as if it is your own, using all of the facilities and enjoying the vast parks and woodlands as if they were your own. As our guests, you will be able to stay, dine and relax surrounded by authentic materials, craftsmanship and furniture from across the château’s long history.
You can choose to experience your château life in whichever period of history you desire.