Usson Castle is a dramatic fortress ruin in the Auvergne region of France, perched atop a volcanic basalt cone. It was once one of the most impregnable fortresses in the kingdom and was known as the "Capri of the Auvergne."
Here's what you need to know about this historic site:
The "Impregnable" Fortress
The castle was gigantic in the Middle Ages. It consisted of three concentric walls that rose in terraces up the hillside and boasted a total of 20 towers. Its location atop the steep volcanic rock made it virtually unassailable.
The Exile of Queen Margot
Perhaps the castle's most famous story is the 19-year imprisonment (or rather, exile) of Margaret of Valois, known as Queen Margot.
From prison to court: She was imprisoned there in 1586, but the resourceful queen managed to bribe her guards and regain control of the castle.
Cultural Center: During her time in Usson, she transformed the rugged fortress into a glittering literary and musical center, far removed from the intrigues of Paris.
The Destruction by Richelieu
That only ruins and the village of Usson remain today is due to Cardinal Richelieu. In the 17th century, he ordered the castle's demolition. He wanted to prevent such powerful fortresses in the Massif Central from serving as refuges for rebellious nobles. The castle's stones were used by the villagers as building material for their houses.
The Present-Day Village of Usson
Today, Usson is one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France (the most beautiful villages in France).
Volcanic Organs: Impressive basalt columns (volcanic formations) can be seen there.
The Queen's Path: A hiking trail leads up to the summit, where a large statue of the Virgin Mary now stands. From there you have a 360-degree view of the chain of Puys (volcanoes) and the Cantal Mountains.
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