Aymavilles Castle
Four medieval round towers around a Baroque palace
At the entrance to the Cogne valley, a hill is crowned by a surprising castle. At its four corners stand crenellated round towers, thoroughly medieval. Between them is a main building remodelled in the 18th century. Aymavilles Castle brings the two periods together in a single building.
From fortress to Baroque residence
The castle’s origins go back to the 12th century. It was then a fortress, held by the Challant family. The following centuries left their mark on it.
The most visible change dates from the 18th century. Joseph-Félix de Challant then turned the fortress into a country residence. He kept the medieval features and added Baroque decoration. The castle’s present appearance dates from this period.
Towers and drawing rooms
The four cylindrical towers, topped with battlements, recall the castle’s military role. Inside, the atmosphere is completely different. The rooms are decorated with frescoes and stucco work, in the refined taste of the 18th century.
Beneath the tall trees
The park was laid out in the 18th century, at the same time as the castle was transformed. It is planted with tall old trees and crossed by avenues. Behind it, you can see the mountains that surround the valley.
Reopened in 2022
The castle underwent a long restoration, completed in 2022. Visitors can once again go inside. The route leads through the various rooms and traces the lives of its occupants, generation after generation. With a guide, you learn more about the history of the place and of the Challant family.
The castle also hosts exhibitions, concerts and other events during the year. You can get there by car: there is a car park nearby.
