About
The Château des évêques, or Bishops' Castle, stands in Castelnau-le-Lez, a town in the Hérault department of southern France. It is a medieval castle that once served as a residence for the bishops of Maguelone, and it remains one of the notable heritage landmarks of the region.
What to expect
A visit here is first and foremost a chance to see a medieval residence in its setting. Because the castle was built to house the bishops of Maguelone, it reflects the role of the church in the life of the area, and walking through it gives a sense of how such a building was used rather than simply admired from outside.
- A historic medieval building with a clear link to the bishopric of Maguelone
- A heritage landmark in the Hérault region
- A setting that suits a slow, unhurried look at the architecture
Around the castle
Castelnau-le-Lez sits close to Montpellier, the large city of the region, which makes it easy to combine a visit to the castle with time in the city's streets, squares and museums. The wider Hérault area, with its old towns and Mediterranean landscape, offers plenty for a day or a longer stay.
For those interested in history, the castle is a good starting point, since it connects the local landscape with the ecclesiastical past of the area. Visitors planning a trip should check current opening arrangements and access before setting out, as these details are not covered here.