BRINGING HERITAGE TO LIFEIN CHÂLUS

Meeting with Jacques, at Château Châlus-Chabrol

Overlooking the historic town of Châlus, Châlus-Chabrol has long held an international reputation. First mentioned in 1071, the château is said to have been the birthplace of Hugues de La Certa, a crusading knight turned monk and founder of the Catholic Order of Grandmont, in Limousin.

Jacques Vigneras

Château owner.

Salle des gardes - Château Châlus-Chabrol

A place steeped in history

Owned for centuries by the Viscounty of Limoges, the building was given as a dowry in 1535 by Louise Borgia (Viscountess of Limoges and Lady of Châlus) to Philippe de Bourbon Busset, whom she married for the second time (a descendant of King Louis IX, known as Saint-Louis). Finally, the most notable event was the death of the English king Richard the Lionheart here in 1199. His entrails are still said to lie in the remains of the castle chapel.

Châlus, a city at heart

Born in Châlus, Jacques spent his entire childhood there and watched the town grow until he was 18. At that time, he decided to study architecture, but unfortunately his studies proved disappointing and he had to stop just before graduation. It was as a true enthusiast that Jacques opened his first antique store in the heart of Eymoutiers, then a second a few years later in Limoges. Nurturing his taste for antiques over the years, it was in 1998 that he acquired Le Poudrier, a mill located on the banks of the Vienne between Limoges and Le Palais-sur-Vienne. Together with Mr. Del Vecchio, he turned it into a veritable paradise for the finest receptions.

Bringing history back to life

Attached to Châlus, it was in March 2019 that Jacques took over the keys to the Châlus-Chabrol estate, with the aim of reopening it to the public, sharing its vibrant history and finding a haven of peace. Having been abandoned for ten years by its former occupants, this was no mean feat. It all began with extensive landscaping and masonry work in support of the Monuments Historiques. Doors, windows, lighting, safety features… everything had to be redone. The medieval garden, previously visible, had itself suffered the ravages of time, and Jacques is saddened to have had to erase it entirely.

Point de vue sur les monts de Châlus - Château Chabrol

Finally, after a few weeks of refurbishment, the château opens its doors to the public. Initially open to the public, guided tours for groups (throughout the year) and individuals (during summer visits) are offered in partnership with the Pays de Nexon – Monts de Châlus tourist office. Over the years, the site has been able to develop and offer visitors new activities, including concerts, plant days and other events. Jacques’ wish is also to offer a place of experimentation for young artists seeking an audience and wishing to share their knowledge. A hot and cold drinks area has also been added to the site, offering a breathtaking view of Châlus and the surrounding area.

Future projects

Today, Jacques deplores the lack of guidance and support. Alone in his château, he has reluctantly decided to part with it. However, he is determined to maintain the quality of the reception facilities and the preservation of the monument, and plans to open an exhibition space above the guardroom in the near future.

Jacques Vigneras - Proprietaire du Château Chalus-Chabrol

Jacques' favorite

As a lover of the Monts de Châlus region, Jacques invites you to stop off in his hometown, particularly at the municipal swimming pool, which he often visited in his youth. It’s also close to the start of the Voie-Verte des Hauts de Tardoire leisure area. He also encourages you to come and enjoy a day out with family or friends at the fabulous Espace Hermeline de Bussière-Galant. On site, you’ll find a vélorail, accrobranche, tyrolienne, little trains and many other activities to share.