Chateau de Murol

Perched on a basalt spur in the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park, Murol Castle is the quintessential example of a feudal mountain fortress. Built in the 12th century and then reinforced in the 14th by the Lords of Murol, it has survived the centuries unscathed. Its architecture is a labyrinth of volcanic stone, comprising a massive keep, a Renaissance courtyard, and crenellated ramparts that seem to spring directly from the black rock. The site exudes a raw power, amplified by the wild landscape that surrounds it. Murol's strength lies in its cultural outreach. The castle is not a static museum: troupes of costumed actors bring to life the daily life of a 15th-century knight. Visitors witness falconry demonstrations, knightly training exercises, and scenes of peasant life. They learn how people heated their homes, cooked, and defended the curtain walls. It is a particularly immersive visit that captivates both history buffs and families seeking adventure.