Château de Saint-Mesmin, Medieval fortress in Saint-André-sur-Sèvre, France.
The Château de Saint-Mesmin features a 28-meter-high keep, surrounded by moats with a drawbridge and military defenses including arrow slits and gun ports.
Construction of this stone fortress began in 1400 under the Montfaucon family, with significant additions made throughout the fifteenth century to enhance its defensive capabilities.
The castle maintains its original lordly kitchen and residence areas, presenting the customs of medieval nobility through daily demonstrations during summer months.
The castle welcomes visitors from April to November, offering guided tours, medieval workshops, and entertainment activities with entry fees between 8 and 10 euros.
The castle organizes an annual Saint Nicholas mystery game in December, transforming the medieval spaces into an interactive adventure for families.
Location: Saint-André-sur-Sèvre
Inception: 14 century
Address: Le Château de la Ville
Website: http://chateau-saintmesmin.fr
GPS coordinates: 46.79970,-0.71778
Latest update: May 27, 2025 16:39
The Pays de la Loire region is full of lesser-known sites revealing the history and diversity of this western France region. Beyond the typical tourist routes, these sites provide an authentic insight into local heritage, craft traditions, and preserved natural landscapes. Among these destinations are castles like Brissac, the tallest in France, and the fortress of Tiffauges, associated with medieval legends. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Gallery of the Apocalypse Tapestry in Angers, a 14th-century textile work, or the Fontevraud Abbey, a remarkable monastic complex. Curious visitors will also find unusual sites such as the Passage du Gois, a tidal road connecting Noirmoutier Island to the mainland depending on the tide, and the Epinay Mill, still operational today. This selection also includes specialized botanical gardens, such as Camifolia in Chemillé, thematic museums dedicated to Jules Verne or early 20th-century rural life, as well as vineyards and manors surrounded by gardens. These locations, often frequented by locals, offer a different perspective for exploring the Pays de la Loire.
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