Manoir de Coutainville, Fortified house in Agon-Coutainville, France.
Manoir de Coutainville is a granite fortified house built around 1500 that sits on elevated ground in the old settlement of Coutainville. The building displays reinforced walls and defensive features typical of structures meant to protect residents during times of territorial conflict.
The manor was built in the early 1500s and initially belonged to a field marshal named Jehan de Costentin, who also managed local fishing rights in the area. Over time it became significant in regional architecture and gained official recognition as a historical monument in 1937.
The place takes its name from the original settlement of Coutainville and reflects how medieval families lived in fortified homes near coastal resources. You can see how the building's layout shows the daily needs of residents who required both security and practical access to their surroundings.
The manor functions today as a bed and breakfast where visitors can stay overnight in an authentic medieval fortified residence. When planning your visit, keep in mind that access and facilities are arranged for guest accommodations rather than casual touring.
During the 16th century, disputes between local noble families over fishing rights at Mare de l'Essay resulted in strict limits on commercial fishing activities. These conflicts show how vital controlled access to resources was for the coastal economy of that time.
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