Château de Conches-en-Ouche, Medieval castle ruins in Conches-en-Ouche, France
Château de Conches-en-Ouche is a medieval fortress centered on a round keep with thick defensive walls and multiple towers positioned throughout the site. The castle occupies elevated terrain and displays the characteristic layout of a Norman stronghold with concentric layers of fortification surrounding the inner structures.
The fortress was established in 1034 by Roger I of Tosny as a military stronghold in the region. It later became a crucial point of contention during the medieval conflicts between French and English forces seeking control of Normandy.
The fortress demonstrates Norman military architecture through its design, incorporating a motte foundation and multiple circular defensive structures.
The outer grounds operate as a public park where visitors can walk and explore the site freely. The inner keep is closed to the public due to structural concerns, but the perimeter walls and surrounding area remain accessible for viewing and photography.
The Capital Tower, built in 1363, sits on a square base while maintaining a round structure above, an unusual architectural combination for that era. This blend of square and circular forms reveals how builders experimented with defensive design when upgrading the fortress.
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