Castelnaud is a few miles east of Beynac along the Dordogne.  This medieval fort dates from the time of the Crusades.  It was part of the holdings of the Knights Templar who were very important in the history of this region.  Its position high atop a ridge overlooking the Dordogne gives it tremendous vistas.

During the Hundred Years' War Castelnaud was held by the English until the French conquered it in 1442.

Today it is privately-owned and -maintained.  A great deal of construction is in progress to make it look as it did when it was an important fortification.  When complete, it will present as a medieval fortress in tip-top shape, and will probably rank as one of France's major tourist attractions.