The Castle Of The Marchidial

Champeix castle belonged to a famous branch of the Counts of Auvergne, the Dauphins. What remains today is the base of the circular Romanesque keep and the former castle church, as well as a remodeled porch.
Careful observation also reveals part of the ramparts to the south, converted into a retaining wall, and a ditch to the west, which served as a defensive barrier.
Thanks to the Armorial de Revel, we have a representation of the castle in the 15th century, before it was abandoned by the Dauphins and their successors, dismantled in the 17th century and left to ruin.
The church of Saint-Jean can still be seen. It's a small sanctuary with a single nave and flat chevet dating from the 12th century. Inside, fragments of frescoes evoke biblical episodes, including Salome's dance and Herod's banquet. The interior of the church is open to visitors in July and August, as part of organized exhibitions.