Château de Sercy, Medieval castle in Sercy, France
Château de Sercy is a rectangular fortress with defensive towers at each corner and a central watchtower situated on elevated ground. The structure guards the entrance to the Grosne Valley from its strategic position and displays the typical layout of a medieval defensive stronghold.
The fortress underwent major rebuilding between 1427 and 1464 under Guillaume de Sercy, who served as the first squire to the Duke of Burgundy. This period shaped its current appearance with fifteenth-century military defense innovations.
The fortress blends construction methods from different periods, reflecting how military design evolved at this location over centuries. Walking around the structure, visitors can observe the layering of these different building phases in the walls and towers.
The site opens to visitors during European Heritage Days, allowing exploration of the exterior architecture and defensive features. It is advisable to check opening details beforehand and wear comfortable shoes, as viewing focuses mainly on walking around the external structure.
The fortress preserves a rare wooden palisade from the fifteenth century, mounted on stone corbels with original oak framework still in place. This surviving woodwork demonstrates construction techniques that typically do not endure in such ancient structures.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
