Château de Puyguilhem is a Renaissance jewel constructed between 1514 and 1535 in northern Dordogne by Mondot de La Marthonie, first president of the Parliament of Paris and associate of King François I. The château showcases exceptional Renaissance and Gothic architecture with mullioned windows, varied towers and turrets adorned with Florentine-style sculptures including salamanders and royal faces. The interior features a grand staircase, furnished rooms with tapestries, and an exceptional fireplace depicting the twelve labors of Hercules. Acquired and restored by the French government beginning in 1939, it is now open to visitors with free parking available on site.
