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In Lyon, this famous 16th-century castle was sold at auction for 1.35 million euros

undefined undefined 3 avril 2026 undefined 17h00

The Editor

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Listed at 600,000 euros, the château on Île Barbe in Lyon was ultimately sold for 1.35 million euros. This auction has sparked renewed interest in this historic site, as mysterious as it is coveted, located on an equally intriguing island.

Attention, lovers of old stones and XXL heritage: the castle of Île Barbe has just changed hands... and not just by a little bit. Initially offered at 600,000 euros during an auction at the administrative court, the property finally sold for 1,350,000 euros. A fantastic win for real estate developer Guillaume Langlois from the company Palauma, who walks away with one of the most unique sites in the Lyon metropolitan area. This sale confirms one thing: even in turbulent times, character properties remain a safe bet.

A domain between heritage and mystery

Behind this transaction lies a whole chapter of Lyon's history coming back to light. The castle, also known as the Châtelard, dates back to the 16th century and spans a wooded area of 3,600 m². Inside, we're talking about 450 m² of living space.

tables, ten bedrooms and just as many reception rooms… in short, a decor worthy of a period film. Additionally, there’s a second building of 340 m² with several accommodations, not to mention a Romanesque chapel from the 12th century, lovingly rebuilt in the 1970s. Classified as a historic monument, this entire complex forms an ancient fortified abbey with a past that is as rich as it is eventful.

Nestled on a strip of land in the middle of the Saône River, Île Barbe is as fascinating as it is intriguing. Its name, derived from the Latin insula barbarica, hints at its wild character. Occupied since the Neolithic era, it has also served as a religious refuge since the 11th century. Today, while part of the island is accessible to walkers via its suspension bridge, the castle remains out of reach. This detail only adds to its mysterious charm… and its potential.

And now, what future awaits?

Now we just need to find out what will become of this hidden gem. Rehabilitation? Luxury real estate project? The future of the castle on Île Barbe is already intriguing. One thing is for sure: with such a setting and such a history, the future owner has endless possibilities!

holds in his hands much more than just a simple piece of real estate. Rather, it's a piece of Lyon's legend.