Château des fées, Medieval fortress ruins in Montcy-Notre-Dame, France.
Château des fées is a castle ruin on a rocky hilltop above the Meuse River near Montcy-Notre-Dame. The preserved foundations show the outline of a rectangular stone structure with solid walls.
The fortress was founded around 870 and played a role in controlling the early Meuse region. A major fire in the late 10th or early 11th century marked the end of its use.
The finds from the castle show objects from distant trade routes, including chess pieces and crafted ceramics. These items suggest the fortress was connected to wealthy and far-reaching networks.
The site sits on a steep slope, so sturdy footwear and care when moving about are necessary. The remains are accessible, but visitors should watch for uneven ground and rough rock formations.
The name comes from the French word 'défait' meaning defeated or ruined, and was only adopted around 1020. This folk etymology twisted the meaning by bringing fairies into the ruins.
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