Chateau des Doyens, Carennac
16th-century chateau that houses the Heritage Centre
This well-preserved chateau is now home to the Heritage Centre for Art and History of the Dordogne region, with a permanent exhibition that explains the wealth, heritage, art and architecture of this region.
The Dordogne region has been labelled 'Pays d'Art & d'Histoire' by the French Ministry of Culture. The permanent exhibition is free and covers four floors of this chateau that was once the residence of Francois Fenelon (1651-1715) who wrote 'The Adventures of Telemachus'. As well as displaying details of Dordogne's heritage the centre also organises guided tours and other events throughout the area.
The museum is worth visiting, not only for the heritage but also for the well preserved and highly decorated ceiling in the salle d'apparat (the ceremonial hall), which dates back to the 17th century.
Visitor comments
- "There is a permanent exhibition spread over all the floors about the art, architecture and way of life of the Dordogne valley and its people. The panels are all in French. I was fascinated by the trade in timber. The boats carrying it made one trip down the river and were then sold for the wood they were made from leaving the crew to make their way back home on the bank. Definitely worth visiting before going on the church, the cloisters and the splendid medieval sculpture." - Trip Advisor
When to come
From June to September, the centre is open daily from 14:00 to 18:00. During the rest of the year you can visit by making an advance reservation.
How to get passes
The centre is free to enter. There is no need to make any advance reservation during the centre opening times in June through to September. Outside of this time you should call in advance to make an appointment to visit.
