Centre des monuments nationaux

Come and visit the château of the Dukes of Épernon overlooking the river Garonne and the bastide of Cadillac, 35km from Bordeaux. Discover the double history of one of the first examples of French-style architecture which for 130 years served as a women's prison.

Visiting the château of Cadillac

• An early 17th-century stately château. The main building with its two wings at right angles, rebuilt in the 19th century, the courtyard, and the gardens all date from the original, sumptuous residence. The monumental marble and stone fireplaces, 17th-century painted ceilings, and tapestries give an idea of the luxury of this house which was visited by Louis XIII and Louis XIV. 

• A women's prison. The building was turned into a prison in 1820. Conditions for the detainees were particularly harsh here until this episode in the building's history came to an end in 1952.

• An ongoing restoration campaign. For some years now major, ongoing restoration works have been carried out to return the building to its former glory and function.

Understanding the château of Cadillac

• A Duke's château. The château of Cadillac represents the unrivalled power of Jean Louis de Nogaret de La Valette, the first Duke of Épernon (1554-1642). This cadet from Gascony became one of the favourites of Henri III and acquired great honours and riches before he died in disgrace in the reign of Louis XIII.