Travelin the days of the lords

Lacapelle-Marival and its imposing castle

Nestled between the gentle valleys of the Ségala and the lush green landscapes of the Limargue, Lacapelle-Marival elegantly transports us back to the era of the lords and the prestigious Cardaillac family. Majestically overlooking the town, the 15th-century castle, listed as a Historic Monument, stands nobly at the heart of the village. Its imposing keep evokes Lacapelle-Marival’s glorious past as a major strategic crossroads. The village is also a stop on the GR®6, the route linking Figeac to the sanctuary of Rocamadour.

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Vue drone de Lacapelle-Marival
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Lot Tourisme - Cyril Novello

A related story

at Cardaillac

Let’s take a step back to the 12th century, a time when all eyes were on this strategic crossroads, which caught the attention of the powerful Cardaillac family. It was here, in 1270, that Géraud I de Cardaillac had the first castle built , which quickly became the vibrant heart of a thriving market town. This fortress, a guarantor of security and prosperity, consolidated the town’s crucial position on the trade routes of the time.

However, over time and through the tumultuous trials of the Hundred Years’ War, the first castle was lost. Yet, with exemplary tenacity, the village recovered, welcoming new arrivals and embracing new industries such as glassmaking and weaving.

It was not until the late 15th century – early 16th century that a second imposing castle, the one we know today, was built by Astorg de Cardaillac.

From this glorious era, Lacapelle-Marival preserves precious architectural remains inherited from the former and important seigneury of the Cardaillac family. Among them, the castle stands as an emblem, proudly bearing witness to the town’s rich and thrilling history.

What to see in Lacapelle-Marival

The must-haves

The 15th-century castle, with its imposing square keep, and its spring and summer exhibitions,
The 15th-century market hall,
L’Arbol, a former gate in the city walls, complete with its tower,
The 16th-centurychurch housing the painting of the Brancardiers

Let’s step back in time to the Middle Ages as we stroll through the town’s narrow streets. To explore at your own pace, there’s nothing quite like the ‘Les clefs de Lacapelle-Marival’walking tour!

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Sculpture in the courtyard of Château de Lacapelle-Marival
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Michel Gerbaud

Dessin intérieur du château de Lacapelle — ©
5 Lacapelle Marival 009
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Gilles TORDJEMAN

The castle

City emblem

Listed as a Historic Monument since 1939, Lacapelle-Marival Castle embodies the legacy of the illustrious Cardaillac family, who resided there for four centuries.

Its imposing square keep captivates visitors with its machicolations and watchtowers crowning each corner. The 15th-century main building, flanked by sturdy round towers, features superb carved beams dating from the early 17th century.

Inside, visitors are taken on a journey through the ages as they admire 15th-century paintings and 17th-century décor. The French-style ceilings, adorned with reproductions of Dutch prints, and the grisaille paintings evoking antiquity bear witness to the refinement of the era.

At the heart of the courtyard, a contemporary bronze sculpture entitled ‘Les Violons’, created bythe artist Casimir Ferrer, adds a contemporary artistic touch to this medieval gem, thus creating a harmonious blend of past and present.

Lacapelle-Marival Castle

Fishing and a walk

at Lake Le Merlival

A true haven of peace for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers, this 3-hectare lake offers the ideal setting to recharge your batteries in complete tranquillity. Here, the only ones taking the plunge are the aquatic inhabitants! On this Category 2 lake, a disabled-access fishing spot has been set up to ensure easy access for people with reduced mobility, allowing everyone to enjoy this unspoilt environment to the full.

After a lovely picnic at the designated tables or in one of the traditional restaurants nearby, what could be better than a peaceful stroll along its shores?

Lacapelle-Marival

A passion for motocross!

This is wherethe adrenaline really kicks in! Lacapelle-Marival is home to a world-renownedmotocross track, the Georges Filhol circuit. At 1,700 metres long and between 8 and 12 metres wide, this circuit offers heart-stopping moments at every bend, for both professional riders and motocross enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re a passionate spectator or an intrepid rider, this is the perfect place to experience some real thrills. This circuit has already hosted the biggest names in motocross during the Masters, and even played host to a round of the prestigious World Championship (MXGP) in 2021, before going on to host the French Elite Motocross Championship in 2023! An unmissable experience for all motorsport enthusiasts!