Name - Chateau de Jumilhac
Location - Jumilhac-le-Grand
Department - Dordogne 24
State - Chateau
Jumilhac-le-Grand is a commune in the Dordogne department in Aquitaine in south-western France. The village lies on the road followed by Richard the Lionheart and on one of the many branches of the Camino de Santiago pilgrim route.
Jumilhac le Grand was originally famous for its gold mines (active from roman times until the end of the 20th century) and subsequently for its numerous forges powered by the river throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Today the principal activities of the commune are agriculture and tourism.
The impressive 13th Century castle of Jumilhac is part of the Richard the Lionheart Route together with other neighbouring castles (Nexon, Coussac-Bonneval and Chalus). This historic route, which is well-signposted, is best done by car.
The Chateau de Jumilhac is classified as an historic building in the Natural Perigord Reserv. The castle was at first a 12th century feudal fortress that has been rebuilt and increased many times; most notably in the 17th century when the castle went through the "rebirth." During this rebirth, new roofs were added that are unique in France. These roofs have enhanced the reputation of the castle, also known as the "Black Pearl" of the Green P?rigord for its distinctive black ridge tiles.
