Chalus, an ancient crossroads
Chalus lies about 36km southwest of Limoges, the capital of Limousin. Positioned on a promontory within the Monts de Chalus, this medieval town overlooks a landscape characterized by hills and chestnut forests, known locally as the Pays de Feuillardiers, nestled in the foothills of the Massif Central.
Part of the Périgord-Limousin Nature Park, this area boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. Evidence of human settlement in Chalus Chabrol dates as far back as the Neolithic period, with the primitive community flourishing at the intersection of six ancient roads.
These routes connected southern France and Spain to northern regions, including Jutland in Denmark, a hub for amber trade in antiquity.
Archaeological excavations have revealed Gallo-Roman artifacts, indicating Chalus’ significance as a pivotal stop along the Roman road linking Limoges to Périgueux.
Chalus Chabrol, a medieval stronghold
Positioned on a promontory overlooking the river Tardoire, Chalus commands a strategically significant location. Archaeological findings from the Merovingian era indicate its evolution into a key stronghold during the early Middle Ages.
Indeed, Chalus not only served as a nexus of ancient roads but also marked the border between historic and rival territories.
Situated between Limousin, the domain of the Counts of Limoges and vassals of the French king, and the Duchy of Aquitaine, it held strategic importance.
With the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry II of England, the Duchy of Aquitaine passed into the hands of the Plantagenêts dynasty.
In the 11th century, the Viscounts of Limoges erected the fortress of Chalus Chabrol to control the Limoges-Périgueux road and compete with the Bourges-Bordeaux route.
The increasing traffic along these routes spurred the growth of the medieval town (Villehaute) and prompted the construction of the Abbey of l’Abeille, which fell under the jurisdiction of the Abbey des Augustins in Limoges.
Richard the Lionheart died in the Castle of Chalus Chabrol
Chalus Chabrol’s strategic location led it to be besieged numerous times throughout its history!
The first occurred in 1193 when mercenaries, in conflict with the Bishop of Limoges, laid siege to the fortress.
However, the most notable siege took place on March 26, 1199. During this siege, Richard the Lionheart, King of England, was fatally wounded by a crossbow bolt. He succumbed to his injuries on April 6 at Chalus Chabrol, with his mother Eleanor of Aquitaine who rushed back from Fontevraud Abbey to be at her son’s deathbed.
In commemoration of this event, a recumbent statue of Richard the Lionheart was later installed within the castle’s walls. This English defeat marked a turning point, allowing King Philip II of France, known as Philip Augustus, to consolidate the French Kingdom.
The third siege occurred in 1265 when Bozon de Bourdeilles contested Ademar de Maulmont‘s claim to the fortress. In response, ten years later, the Maulmonts constructed the Château de Chalus-Maulmont on the opposite bank of the Tardoire River.
The fourth siege unfolded in 1406 amidst the turmoil of the Hundred Years’ War.
The fifth siege took place in 1569 during the Wars of Religion. Under the leadership of Admiral Coligny, a Protestant army, which included the young Henry of Navarre (the future Henry IV), seized control of Chalus.
On June 25 of the same year, they successfully defeated the forces of the King of France, enabling them to advance into Périgord and spread the Protestant faith.
Despite the signing of the Edict of Nantes in 1598, which officially ended the Wars of Religion, sporadic conflicts between Huguenots and Catholics persisted locally until 1592.
Vestiges of the fortress
The fortress eventually came under the ownership of the French State. Tragically, it underwent significant dismantling during the French Revolution.
Today, only remnants remain, including a round tower that once housed private apartments, and the circular keep. Local legend holds that the fatal arrow that struck Richard the Lionheart was fired from this very keep.
In the mid-19th century, the Castle of Chalus Chabrol saw partial restoration efforts initiated by the Count of Bourbon-Chalus, who reclaimed ownership. However, it changed hands again in 1995 when their descendants sold it. Despite its diminished state, the castle of Chalus Chabrol is recognized as a Historical Monument.
Chalus Chabrol, a major market town
Medieval Chalus Chabrol not only marked the boundary of historic territories but also thrived in a region primarily dedicated to cattle breeding. As a result, it emerged as a bustling market town, renowned for its vibrant fairs and trading activities.
During the 18th century, the introduction of chestnut trees in Limousin sparked the growth of a new industry: chestnut wood processing. Skilled artisans known as Feuillardiers played a crucial role in this industry.
Derived from the term “feuillards,” which referred to the young chestnut shoots, these craftsmen transformed the wood into various products such as barrel circles, baskets for crustaceans, and stakes for vines and slats.
However, despite its significance in the region’s economy, this traditional craft has sadly faded into history.
Department of Haute-Vienne – Limousin region
Coordinates Chalus: Lat 45.658391 – Long 0.982319
