Beautiful Chateau de Maravau sits on an old Gallo-Roman site of 3 acres, close to Ste Foy La Grande and it is from here that the Knights Templar constructed a 'Lookout Tower' in the late 12th Century. This tower was used for early warning of impending attacks and still stands magnificently today as part of the chateau. Within the grounds of the chateau, stands another house, 'la Maison des Chevaliers' also linked to the Templars. The Knights lived here and would have received pilgrims and fellow Knights on their way to the Holy Land.

Of note, la Maison Des Chevaliers has an unusual vaulted cellar which is typical of Templar construction. At one time an underground passageway also connected the local churchyard to this vaulted cellar. The cellar was almost certainly used later during the 'Hundred Years War' between the English and French in the 14/15th Century and throughout the Wars of Religion during the 16th Century by those fleeing imprisonment or worse.

A legend has been passed down locally concerning the tunnel as it is supposed to have branched off at one time near the churchyard. The story goes that a Templar treasure is buried somewhere along the tunnel or perhaps valuable chattels of a former owner. It is impossible to say whether a treasure indeed exists or ever existed but the chateau's owner believes it is worthy of further investigation, given the strength of local feeling - another mystery in South West France.

Since these early times, the chateau has grown sympathetically into a splendid abode, all kept excellent order, and with magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. It is a place with that rare feeling of mystery and history.