The construction of this architectural wonder lasted about seven centuries, since it was begun in the 9th century by the famous lords La Popie, the family behind the name of Saint-Cirq Lapopie’s medieval village. It is dated from the 13th century, as that was the time when the castle was actually built. When the building became the property of the Gourdon’s in 1580, the castle was transformed into a Renaissance palace. Since 1793, the De Braquilanges family owns the place and is responsible for maintaining this historical monument and to perpetuate its extraordinary history.It is a heritage whose priceless historical value was recognized officially in 1957. You can visit the hall with painted ceiling representing views of Constantinople, the alchemy room, the guard room, the keep, the old kitchens, the dungeons and the chapel, the frescoes in the different rooms, etc. The special feature of this site is that tours are led by the lords of the castle themselves!