Château de l'Étenduère, Ruined castle in Les Herbiers, France.
Château de l'Étenduère is a fortified residence in Les Herbiers reduced to its fundamental structural elements, consisting of three walls, a foundation platform, and an entry bridge. The visible remains display 17th-century construction methods and the traces of military features added during that period.
The site began as basic lodging in 1375 and evolved into a noble residence by 1484 when fortifications were added. Military enhancements including cannon ports were installed in 1622 to strengthen its defensive capabilities.
The ruins hold meaning for the local community as a tangible link to the region's medieval past and noble heritage. People in Les Herbiers view the site as part of their shared identity and connection to Vendée history.
The ruins are situated in the southwestern part of Les Herbiers near the Buzinière area and are accessible on foot. Wear sturdy footwear since the ground is uneven and some walls are in fragile condition requiring careful movement.
The site gained official recognition in 2019 when selected by the Mission d'Identification du Patrimoine Immobilier en Péril as endangered heritage requiring protection. A local association called Passion Patrimoine has been conducting hands-on preservation work since 2016 to prevent continued deterioration.
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