Château de Druyes, Medieval fortress in Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, France
Château de Druyes is a medieval fortress in the village with four circular towers at its corners and thick stone walls arranged in a square shape. The construction showcases robust defensive design, and visitors can still observe the original architectural layout across the grounds.
The fortress was built in the late 12th century by the Counts of Nevers as a significant residential stronghold for the local nobility. It served as a home for Pierre II de Courtenay before his rise to prominence in broader European affairs.
The Romanesque gallery with twin windows and columns shows how the lord's quarters once looked and reveals the importance this fortress held for the surrounding community.
The site is accessible to visitors who can explore the exterior and walk around the towers and walls at their own pace. It is wise to allow time for a thorough walk and wear appropriate clothing, as the location is exposed to the elements.
The eastern corner tower still displays visible remains of a 12th-century chapel apse, revealing the spiritual importance of this place. This architectural feature demonstrates how religious and defensive functions were intertwined within the fortress.
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