Castle of Saint-Germain-de-Livet, Medieval castle and museum in Saint-Germain-de-Livet, France
The Castle of Saint-Germain-de-Livet is a fortified residence in Normandy that combines medieval stone structures with timber framing and Renaissance details. A square keep and surrounding defensive walls define the overall character of the estate.
The castle was built by the Tournebu family between 1561 and 1578 and combines older medieval foundations with Renaissance elements. This building period shows how defensive architecture transformed during a time of social change.
The castle displays features of Norman building practices visible in its timber-framed structures and decorative details. These elements reflect how the region expressed its craft traditions through architecture.
The grounds are accessible year-round and offer visitors a comprehensive look at medieval and Renaissance construction methods. The combination of outdoor areas and interior spaces allows exploration of different architectural layers.
The castle's keep displays an unusual feature: a particular timber-framing construction technique that is less common in other Norman castles. This building style lets visitors notice the craft differences among various regional fortresses.
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