Château de Beaufort, Fortified house in Plerguer, France.
Château de Beaufort is a granite fortified house featuring two perpendicular wings topped with slate roofs, positioned near a large pond. The structure displays the characteristic design of a defensive residential building that also served everyday living purposes.
The original structure was built in the 12th century as a fortified residence with defensive towers, but was destroyed during the Wars of the League. The current building was reconstructed in the late 16th century at a new location beside the pond.
The castle has long held religious significance for the people of the region, serving as a place where faith and family history intertwined during times of change. Today visitors can sense this legacy in the quiet, contemplative spaces within the walls.
The property now operates as a monastery and serves as an active religious community, which affects general public access to the grounds. It is helpful to contact ahead to learn about visiting possibilities and any restrictions that may apply on the day of your visit.
The building was completely relocated to take advantage of a better position beside the pond, an unusual undertaking for its time. The new site provided both water-based protection and access to resources that the original hilltop location could not offer.
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