Château de la Motte, Medieval castle in Joué-du-Plain, Normandy, France
Château de la Motte is a castle in Normandy built on medieval fortification foundations near Joué-du-Plain. The stone structure is approached through a long avenue of chestnut trees and displays architectural layers from different building periods.
The castle began as a medieval fortification in the 10th century and underwent major renovations between the 16th and 18th centuries. These later modifications changed it from a purely defensive structure into a residential building.
The castle's name reflects its original defensive form, and visitors can observe how residents gradually transformed military features into comfortable living spaces over the centuries. The layout reveals practical choices made by different generations to suit their daily lives.
The property sits in a rural setting, so a car is the best way to reach and explore the location. Parking is limited in the surroundings, so visitors should arrive early, especially on weekends.
During World War II, the castle served as both a dairy and a hidden refuge for the Resistance movement. The property secretly sheltered Allied pilots and stored military equipment, revealing its dual purpose during that period.
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