Château de la Durbelière

Château de la Durbelière is a 15th-century castle in ruins located in Mauléon, featuring a long private pathway leading to its entrance and a square courtyard. Substantial outbuildings, moats, and ponds surround the courtyard, indicating the original scale of the estate.

The castle was built in the 15th century and suffered five separate fires during the Vendée Wars between 1793 and 1794. These destruction events left the structure in its current ruined state.

The castle is connected to Henri de la Rochejaquelein, a military leader born here who became important during the Vendée Wars. Visitors sense this local historical link when walking through the grounds.

The municipality of Mauléon took ownership of the site in 2023, and visitors can access it during Heritage Days weekends throughout the year. Plan to walk the private pathway and explore the scattered buildings and water features on the grounds.

The entire site, including castle remains, service buildings, moats, and a pond, was classified as a historical monument in 1996 and is protected today. This comprehensive protection reflects how the original design of the complex was preserved in the archaeological record.

Location: Mauléon

GPS coordinates: 46.95003,-0.68717

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:07