The streets of Beynac that lead to the château are narrow, steep and winding. We took many breaks to catch our breath on the way up to the top.

The streets had many archways that were used to slow any invader who wanted to pass through the city on the way to the château.

The view of the Dordogne from the château is breath taking. The château was one of three in the immediate area dating from the 11th and 12th centuries. Beynac was controled by the French for part of the time while the other two châteaux (Castlenaud and Marqueyssac) belonged to the English. Beynac was captured by Richard the Lionhearted in 1189, but it returned to French control in 1199. It was recaptured by the English in 1360 and remained in their hands until the end of the Hundred Years’ War.

In the 17th century the château became the meeting pace of the States General of Perigord. The room at right was used for the meetings of the barons of Beynac, Biron, Bourdeilles and Mareuil.

Everyday concerns were addressed by “amenities” such as this 13th century latrine.

One of the chapels has a wonderful stone cross.

Another view from the top of the château. The building is the manorial chapel built in the 13th century. It is now the village church for Beynac.