When was the Château d'Oriou constructed?

The château dates from the second half of the 16th century. It retains the characteristic appearance of a small rural manor from this period, although its interior was extensively modified in the 19th century.

What does the monument historique status protect?

The round tower to the north, adjoining the outbuildings, was inscribed as a historic monument by decree of 13 April 1989.

What are the defensive features of this château?

The complex is enclosed by walls and surrounded by dry moats crossed by two bridges. Round towers, including two corner turrets visible on the west facade, complete the domain's defensive system.

Château d'Oriou

Oriou Castle

Saint-Maxire

Access

No visits on recordNo opening hours or ticketing found

Where: Saint-Maxire

To make a day of it

Open within 20 km

Sleep nearby

château le Petit ChêneAccommodation on site16 km

Château d'Oriou stands in Saint-Maxire (Deux-Sèvres), in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France. The building is registered as a historic monument (dating recorded in the Mérimée database: second half of the 16th century, 19th century). The building is privately owned and no visits are on record.

The Château d'Oriou, located in Saint-Maxire in Deux-Sèvres, dates from the second half of the 16th century. Built apart from the village in a loop of the Sèvre river, this small rural manor ensemble is organized around a rectangular main building flanked by a tower. The estate, enclosed by walls and protected by dry moats, retains the defensive character typical of its period despite 19th-century alterations.

What to know

The site reflects the strategic importance of Saint-Maxire in the 16th century, particularly related to its bridges and passages.
The complex comprises several outbuildings with round corner towers, including a round tower adjoining the auxiliary buildings.
The domain's dry moats are crossed by two bridges leading to the main entrances.
The rear round tower contains a spiral staircase and retains its wall walk topped by a slate pepper-pot roof turret.
The interior of the main building has undergone significant modifications over time, particularly in the 19th century.

Where this château is

Saint-Maxire · Deux-Sèvres · Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Loading the map…

This châteauChâteaux within 40 km

Address

79410 Saint-Maxire

Directions open from wherever you are, by car or public transport.

Get directions View on a map

Heritage status: Registered historic monument (inscrit); Mérimée record PA00101409
Period of construction: second half of the 16th century, 19th century

Frequently asked

When was the Château d'Oriou constructed?: The château dates from the second half of the 16th century. It retains the characteristic appearance of a small rural manor from this period, although its interior was extensively modified in the 19th century.
What does the monument historique status protect?: The round tower to the north, adjoining the outbuildings, was inscribed as a historic monument by decree of 13 April 1989.
What are the defensive features of this château?: The complex is enclosed by walls and surrounded by dry moats crossed by two bridges. Round towers, including two corner turrets visible on the west facade, complete the domain's defensive system.