BAUME CASTLE

The Château de la Baume, nicknamed the "Versailles of Gévaudan," is the only large-scale château built in the department during the Classical era. It served as the seat of the Barony of the Lords of Peyre.

The earliest document mentioning the château dates back to 1275. Following the Wars of Religion, and after the dismantling of the original baronial seat at Roc de Peyre, the Barons of Peyre decided to build a new residence; they chose La Baume, with construction beginning in 1632. The château subsequently underwent an expansion campaign between 1690 and 1715 to create the southern wing, designed to evoke the style of Versailles.

The château’s current appearance dates from the early 18th century. Externally, it bears a closer resemblance to medieval defensive structures, whereas its interior features exuberant decoration influenced by both Italian and Versailles styles.

The owners are descendants of Emmanuel de Las Cases, the famous companion who accompanied Napoleon Bonaparte