Château de Montaigu, Medieval castle in Montaigu-Vendée, France
Château de Montaigu is a fortress perched on a rocky spur between the Maine and Asson rivers, featuring a square tower with flat corner turrets set against its walls. The structure utilized the natural topography to strengthen its defensive capabilities.
The fortress was built in the 9th century as a wooden stockade against Viking raids and later rebuilt in stone during 1218. This conversion marked the shift from temporary to permanent defensive structures in the region.
The fortress connects to the story of Jeanne de Belleville, a woman who became a naval commander after her husband's execution during the Hundred Years War. Visitors can sense the link between this location and the dramatic events of that period.
The castle is undergoing major restoration work and is scheduled to reopen in spring 2025 with new exhibition areas and guided tours. Check current access information before planning your visit, as building work may affect pathways and viewing areas.
The dry moat reached approximately 16 meters deep in the 15th century, making it one of the deepest defensive ditches in the region. This remarkable depth created an effective barrier that protected the fortress from direct assault.
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