History of the castle of Lareole

History of the castle of Laréole

Built at the end of the 16th Century, this example of Renaissance masterpiece comes from the wealthy period of the area’s pastel trade of the time. The pastel plant was once grown in the Toulouse region for the production of a blue dye.

Pierre de Cheverry, son of a pastel merchant, ordered the construction of a ceremonial castle from the great Toulouse architect Dominique Bachelier in 1579. It was built in less than 3 years… It is one of a kind in the Midi–Toulouse area through its aesthetic choice of alternating brick and stone in the construction of its walls. An example of the art of 18th Century formal gardens, the surrounding park is laid out in the French tradition according to guidelines established by Le Nôtre.

The estate remained in the family until 1707, then changed hands several times until finally being acquired by the General Council in 1984 when they began its restoration..

See also:

> The castle today

> Expositions and activities

> Services and practical information

Office de Tourisme