Château d'Arcine, Medieval castle in Saint-Pierre-en-Faucigny, France.
Château d'Arcine is a castle with a three-story square tower, a residential building, and a planted interior courtyard that reflects different building phases. The structure combines defensive elements with living spaces and shows the practical needs of a medieval fortress.
The castle developed between the 9th and 11th centuries through gradual expansion of an original fortification. By the 13th century, it became the administrative center of a lordship that controlled a large territory.
The castle served as the seat of local authority and shaped life in surrounding communities through its control of land and resources. Visitors can still see how the architecture reflects the power and influence that emanated from this place.
The site sits in hilly terrain with pathways for exploring the outer grounds and surroundings. The interior is partially accessible, but it is wise to check ahead about visiting conditions and access details.
The castle once served as a frontier fortress monitoring mountain passes and controlling trade routes connecting northern and southern Europe. Its elevated position at 550 meters (1,800 feet) today shows the strategic importance merchants and travelers once held as they passed through the valley.
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