Château de Princé, Medieval castle ruins in Chaumes-en-Retz, France.
Château de Princé is a medieval castle in Chaumes-en-Retz where only foundations and partial stone walls remain standing today. These ruins reveal the basic layout of what was once a fortified residence with defensive structures.
The castle was built in the 11th century as a fortified feudal stronghold surrounded by moats. It burned down in 1793 after centuries as a residence for several noble families including the Chauvigny and d'Annebault lineages.
The property shows signs of the Enchanted Islands gardens created in the 17th century, which reflected how aristocrats lived and shaped their surroundings. Visitors can still see traces of this garden design woven into the landscape today.
The ruins are visible from public roads, but private ownership prevents visitors from entering the site. You can best view the remains from a distance and explore the surrounding area.
One tower was called the Tower of Bluebeard, linked to Gilles de Rais, a notorious historical figure from the 15th century who stayed in this region. This dark connection gives the place an intriguing local reputation.
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