Fortified House of Reignac A unique troglodytic castle to discover in Périgord!

Visit the Maison Forte de Reignac, one of the most remarkable troglodytic sites in the Périgord

In the heart of the Vézère Valley, the Maison Forte de Reignac is one of the most impressive troglodytic sites in the Dordogne. Carved and built directly into an immense limestone cliff, it is today the only fully preserved and furnished cliff castle in France.

Part troglodytic dwelling, part medieval fortress and part noble residence, the Maison Forte de Reignac offers a unique journey through more than 20,000 years of history. Behind a façade that is almost invisible from the road lies a vast, fully furnished and remarkably well-preserved castle, where each room tells the story of the daily lives of its inhabitants over the centuries.

The visit also includes the famous International Exhibition on Torture and the Death Penalty, renowned for its historical and educational approach.

An unmissable visit for anyone wishing to discover the history of troglodytic life in the Périgord Noir.

More than 20,000 years of human occupation within the cliff

Long before it became a medieval castle, the Reignac cliff had already been inhabited by humans since prehistoric times. Archaeological excavations have revealed more than 20,000 years of human occupation, making this troglodytic site an exceptional testimony to humankind's ability to adapt to its environment.

Research indicates that the earliest modifications to the cliff probably date back to the Iron Age, around 750 BC. During the Middle Ages, this natural cavity was transformed into a powerful fortress, naturally protected by the surrounding landscape.

Today, visitors can discover this evolution through numerous furnished rooms, interpretation areas and collections that trace the history of this extraordinary place.

A troglodytic dwelling transformed into a genuine castle

From the outside, only the façade is visible. Yet once through the door, visitors discover a vast monument carved directly into the rock.

The different rooms reveal how, over the centuries, this cliff was transformed into a comfortable noble residence while retaining the natural advantages of troglodytic architecture: protection, cool temperatures and defence.

This exceptional architecture, perfectly integrated into the cliff, continues to amaze visitors today.

The visit is self-guided, with no reservation required for individual visitors. The route is fully signposted and includes information panels, as well as visitor guide booklets available in several languages.

New for 2026: discover "The Legend of the Reignac Goat"

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of its opening to the public, the Maison Forte de Reignac presents a new original film: "The Legend of the Reignac Goat".

Screened on the upper terraces, this brand-new tale features the emblematic character of the cliff castle and immerses visitors of all ages in the legends surrounding this exceptional troglodytic site.

Why visit the Maison Forte de Reignac?

• One of the most beautiful troglodytic sites in the Dordogne.
• The only fully preserved and furnished cliff castle in France.
• More than 20,000 years of history within a single cliff.
• A listed Historic Monument in the heart of the Périgord Noir.
• A fully furnished and remarkably well-preserved castle.
• International Exhibition on Torture and the Death Penalty.
• Magnificent panoramic views over the Vézère Valley from the terraces.
• Self-guided visit lasting approximately 1 hour.
• No reservation required for individual visitors.
• Fully signposted route with information panels.
• Visitor guide booklets available in English, Dutch, German, Spanish, Italian, Hebrew and Russian.
• Free activity booklet for children.
• Photography permitted throughout the castle and exhibition.
• Gift shop.
• Free parking.
• Dogs on leads are welcome.
• Open every day during the tourist season.