Château du Bec-Crespin, Medieval castle and historical monument in Saint-Martin-du-Bec, France
The Château du Bec-Crespin is a castle set within a wooded park of around 28 hectares, featuring five towers and vaulted Romanesque cellars from the medieval period. The structure shows architectural additions from the 17th century layered over its original design.
The castle originated around 1200 as a noble residence in Normandy, evolving through centuries of ownership. During the 20th century it provided shelter for Belgian government officials during World War I and housed archives from Le Havre during World War II.
The facade displays red bricks and white stones arranged in checkerboard patterns, creating a distinctive visual rhythm across the building. These traditional materials and geometric decorations remain central to how the structure appears today.
The site now operates as a bed and breakfast while maintaining its legal status as a protected historical monument. Plan visits in advance and check on availability, as the property serves overnight guests as a priority.
The building uses the Lézarde river spring for heating through aquathermy, combining historical preservation with modern environmental technology. This approach allows the monument to function as a comfortable residence while keeping its original structures intact.
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