Château de la Haye-du-Puits

Château de la Haye-du-Puits is a medieval castle ruin set in the Norman landscape, preserved as a three-story quadrangular gate tower with substantial defensive walls and machicolations. The structure shows signs of later modifications while retaining its original military character.

The site was founded in 1082 when Count Robert of Mortain established control over local mills and wool production. Over the 15th and 16th centuries, the gatehouse underwent significant renovations that brought its defenses in line with contemporary military needs.

The place derives its name from the medieval fortification that once dominated the area. You can still sense how this location shaped local identity and how the ruins sit within the broader story of Norman settlements.

The ruins sit in an open area that is generally accessible and offers clear views of the old structure. Wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven, and take care around the tower's steps and exposed sections.

The gatehouse displays a striking blend of original medieval construction and later additions that reveal how fortifications evolved over generations. Visitors can trace these architectural layers directly in the walls and observe how the site adapted to changing military tactics.