Château de Durtal, Durtal, France

Château de Durtal is located halfway between Angers and Le Mans. Built on a rocky promontory, it overlooks the Loir Valley.

Hostilities between the counties of Anjou and Maine prompted Foulque Nerra to lay the first foundations of the Durtal castle as early as 1040. Built on a rocky promontory, this feudal fortress served as a strategic rampart to defend his lands. In the middle of the 11th century, his son Geoffroy de Martel completed the construction of the castle.

The current castle dates from the 15th century, after the Hundred Years' War. It was built by the La Jaille family.

It served as one of the residences of the Marshal of France François de Scépaux and, a century later, of Henri de Schomberg. The castle received visits from members of the royal family and the court and hosted King René, Charles IX, and Henri II.

The increase in commercial exchanges along the Loir River in the 16th century led to the gradual enrichment of the region and the zenith of the castle, marking the beginning of a transformation into a palace where Louis XIII and Marie de Médicis stayed. In the 17th century, the Duke of La Rochefoucauld made the castle one of his many residences.

In 1859, the castle housed the town's hospital, served by the Sisters of Sainte-Marie d'Angers. The transformation mutilated some rooms and interior decorations.

In 2007, the castle was purchased by the politician Alain Suguenot and his family.

References:

Wikipedia

Walls of Constantinople

The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.

Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.

Simon Brace (2 years ago)
Very interesting guided tour for 8.50€ taking one hour.

Ian Stone (6 years ago)
An amazing building

Roy Latty (6 years ago)
Unfortunately we didn't have time to go inside but, wow, what a beautiful building, and stunning architecture

Nick Allen (7 years ago)
Excellent and informative castle tour. Euros 7.5 per adult for an hour very well spent. Justine was an excellent guide.

John J (8 years ago)
Friendly service, comfortable rooms. The Castle is not totally renovated yet, but still beautiful with an amazing history.

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