Lignac

History

The name Lignac is probably of Roman origin. During the Roman occupation a wealthy landowner named Linius apparently lived in the area; there are source references to Liniacum and Villa Linii. Within the commune lies the hamlet of Château Guillaume, which was a commune in its own right up until 1829. The château was at its height between 1087 and 1112 AD when it was the home of William IX, Duke of Aquitaine. It was said to be the home of Eleanor of Aquitaine, consort of King Louis VII of France and King Henry II of England. The Château of Lignac was constructed during the 15th century in the centre of the village. All that remains today are the feet of two pillars to the old gateway. The Church of St Christophe dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries; there is a mention of the church in department archives from 1630.