Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Aulais-La-Chapelle - Top 13

Château de La Léotardie in Nonac, in Charente, not in Dordogne. Listed as a Historic Monument, Château de la Léotardie in Nonac was originally the property of Hélie Léotard, then Archdeacon of Bourges. Part country house, part monastery, this former fortified castle was largely rebuilt in the 14th century and then renovated in the 15th. Visitors can discover a vaulted room and an ogival doorway on the ground floor. It is also possible to admire a medieval triple-nave barn a few hundred meters away. https://www.france-voyage.com/villes-villages/nonac-2918/chateau-leotardie-12663.htm

Among the oldest in the region, the Saint-Cybard church in Porcheresse was built in the 11th century. It is still surrounded by its cemetery and presbytery, which is one of its distinctive features. The church shares similarities with churches in the area (Etriac, Puypéroux, Bécheresse, and Côteaux du Blanzacais). It features narrow windows pierced in the buttresses, as well as rubble stone walls. In the 12th century, it was remodeled and reinforced to accommodate vaults. However, the building's condition currently prohibits visits; renovation work is planned for the very near future. This monument was listed as a "Historic Monument" in 1913. The church's patron saint was the monk Cybard, who came from Dordogne in the 6th century. He lived for a long time in a cave beneath the Angoulême plateau. https://www.sudcharentetourisme.fr/fiche-sit/eglise-saint-cybard-de-porcheresse-5895303/#truncate https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89glise_Saint-Cybard_de_Porcheresse

The Church of Saint-Gervais and Saint-Protais in Pérignac, built in the 12th century, is a jewel of Romanesque art. It is located in the Charente department, in the commune of Pérignac. Its Limousin-style bell tower is atypical for a Charente church. Only three similar bell towers have been recorded in the department. With its several modillion sculptures, its capitals, its interior decoration, and its history, the Church of Saint-Gervais and Saint-Protais in Pérignac is well worth a visit. Due to its appeal and historical value, this monument was listed as a "Historic Monument" in 1907. https://www.sudcharentetourisme.fr/fiche-sit/eglise-saint-gervais-et-saint-protais-5895230/ https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89glise_Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais_de_P%C3%A9rignac

Why Visit Château de la Léotardie? For its enchanting setting: Nestled in the heart of the Périgord countryside, the château is a haven of peace where you can recharge your batteries while admiring a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. For its history: This place full of history allows you to discover a part of the rich past of the Périgord, with architecture that reflects the art of living and elegance of yesteryear. For its role in social and event life: The château offers a perfect setting for private events or receptions, with beautifully designed indoor and outdoor spaces. Château de la Léotardie is a hidden gem in the Dordogne, combining history, elegance and nature. It is a place to discover for those looking to explore an authentic corner of Périgord heritage.

Park and Gardens: Exceptional Natural Setting: Surrounded by vast meadows, woods and gardens, the château offers an idyllic natural setting. Visitors can enjoy quiet strolls in the shaded paths, among century-old trees, or relax while observing the local wildlife. French Gardens: Some of the château's gardens are laid out in a classic "à la française" style, with geometric flowerbeds and boxwood-lined paths, adding to the charm of the place. Intimate and Historical Atmosphere: Venue for Receptions and Events: The Château de la Léotardie is often used for private receptions, weddings and other events, making it a choice venue for those wishing to celebrate in a historic and romantic setting. Authentic Atmosphere: Despite its prestigious past, the château retains an intimate and tranquil atmosphere, offering visitors a true immersion in the history of the Périgord. Proximity to Tourist Sites: Périgord Noir Region: Located close to the famous tourist sites of the Dordogne, such as Sarlat, the caves of Lascaux and the castles of Beynac and Castelnaud, the Château de la Léotardie is an ideal base for exploring the region. Cultural and Natural Heritage: The castle is surrounded by magnificent landscapes, dense forests and rivers, typical of the Dordogne, offering many opportunities for nature lovers, whether it be hiking, canoeing or visiting picturesque villages.

Château de la Léotardie is a magnificent château located in the Dordogne region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Nestled in the heart of the Périgord countryside, it embodies the elegance and history of the region, while offering a peaceful and green setting. Although it is less well-known than some of the great châteaux of the Dordogne, it has a particular charm, particularly due to its architecture and its environment. Points of Interest at Château de la Léotardie: Renaissance Architecture: Périgourdine Elegance: Château de la Léotardie, dating from the Renaissance, is distinguished by its refined architecture. It has features typical of manor houses of this period, with stone facades, sloping roofs covered with tiles and beautiful stone fireplaces. Historical Details: Certain architectural elements bear witness to the history of the château, such as mullioned windows and circular towers which give the whole an appearance that is both defensive and elegant.

Unlike the nave intended for the faithful, the transept and the apse constitute the parts of the church reserved for religious people. In Pérignac, the cut stone construction of the apse testifies to the importance given to the sanctuary. Particular care was also given to the sculpted decoration of the transept, its chapels and the apse. Archaeological surveys have revealed the presence of painted decorations. The church is dedicated to Gervais and Protais, sons of Saints Vital and Valérie. After the martyrdom of their parents, the twins converted to Christianity. They are stopped by Nero who asks them to recant. Refusing, the brothers are then imprisoned, flogged and then beheaded. This term could indicate a very ancient foundation of the church. The building has a Latin cross plan. The nave does not have a window: the light comes from the bays of the facade, the apse and the apsidioles. The passages designed to connect the nave and the apse without having to cross the space of the transept crossing constitute a curiosity. This formula, which is quite rare in Charente Romanesque buildings, is nevertheless found not far from here in three other churches: Puypéroux, Nonac and Conzac. The church offers Romanesque sculpture of good quality, the difference in style of which can be explained by the intervention of several workshops. The bell tower rebuilt by the architect Warin is a replica of the bell towers designed for Angoulême Cathedral by his mentor, the architect Paul Abadie fils, around 1850.

A nice place to take a break. There is a picnic bench and an orientation table. There are lovely views over the surrounding fields.