Castillo de Rivau

Lémeré, France

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The Château du Rivau in Lémeré, France, is a medieval castle dating back to around 1420 and closely associated with the illustrious Beauvau family, who served the French kings and became linked to the royal family through marriage.

The castle was fortified in 1442 by Pierre de Beauvau with royal permission and became an important stronghold during the Hundred Years' War. It is historically notable for Joan of Arc's visit in 1429 when she came to select warhorses before the siege of Orléans. In the early 1500s, François de Beauvau, captain to King François I, built monumental stables to house royal stallions.

The castle blends medieval fortress features with Renaissance architectural elements, including decorated Gothic windows and elegant frescoes. It escaped demolition in the 17th century due to family ties with Cardinal Richelieu and remained in the Beauvau family for over two centuries. After falling into neglect, the castle was restored starting in 1992 and now stands as a historic monument open to visitors, featuring both its medieval heritage and remarkable fairy-tale gardens with contemporary art.

It remains a celebrated cultural and historic site in the Loire Valley.