Château d'Arguel, Medieval castle ruins in Fontain, France
The castle ruins sit on a rocky outcrop that overlooks the Doubs Valley upstream from Besançon. The remains include fortification walls and vaulted cellars that hint at the structure's former scale.
Built during the late 11th century by the Lords of Arguel, the site held strategic importance for generations. A major attack in 1336 caused severe damage, followed by deliberate destruction ordered by the French crown in the 17th century.
The site carries the name of its original builders and reflects the imprint of multiple ruling families across centuries. Visitors can explore the old foundations and imagine the former importance of this fortified residence.
Visitors should bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain when exploring the site. Guided tours depart from the village washhouse and provide insight into the archaeological findings and building history.
Excavations have uncovered a stone inscribed with runic characters from the 5th century, revealing that the site was in use long before the medieval castle was built. This discovery shows the location held strategic value since ancient times.
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