Richard the Lionheart.

We all think we know the history of Richard the Lionheart but I never knew about his death or how he died, so it was a privilege to visit the privately owned Castle of Châlus - Chabrol where he was mortally wounded.

He died while besieging the castle in 1199, from a crossbow bolt fired, according to legend, by one of the defenders called Bertrand de Gourdon.

He was injured on 26th March . He suffered for a few days before he took his last breath in front of the fireplace ( see collage) in the guard room. His mother Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine attended the death on Tuesday, April 6 1199 and the burial of the entrails in the Church Notre Dame de Haut - Chalus. His heart is buried in Rouen Cathedral, and his body is buried in Fontevraud Abbey in the duchy of Anjou, along with his mother and father.Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II.

This small historic monument had a very special intimate and atmospheric feel.
Owned privately we were given a very warm welcome, and were able to watch a video about the castle and Richard before wandering around at our leisure.
There was a superb view from the top of the corner tower, which is where K took the photo of me.

The castle is open every day from 10am. - 7pm. Entry 6 euros.
The couple who own it now bought it back in 2018. It was up for sale for 1million euros.
He used to visit as a child. They are truly dedicated to the property and live in a beautiful house adjacent to the castle. ( see extra)

I would say this has been one of the highlights of our holiday and on our last day too.