Château de Larringes, Medieval castle in Larringes, France.
Château de Larringes is a fortified house in the French pre-Alps with a central courtyard surrounded by several residential buildings and a dominant tower. The layout combines defensive walls with practical living spaces organized around the open court.
The site has roots in Roman times, but the current building was founded in the 10th century as a feudal stronghold. A major renovation in the 14th century under Guillaume de Châtillon gave it much of the form seen today.
The castle shows how French noble families built their homes to be both fortified and comfortable at the same time. This blend of defense and living space shaped the look of the estate over the centuries.
The castle sits near the start of a hiking trail that loops through the surrounding mountain landscape and takes several hours to complete. Good walking shoes and attention to weather conditions are recommended for anyone exploring the area on foot.
On clear days, the elevated position offers wide views across the landscape toward the Alps and beyond. These sight lines were one reason why this spot was chosen for a stronghold in earlier centuries.
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