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Founded: 12th centuryCategory: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Birth of Capetian dynasty (France)
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The Château de Murs, perched on the heights of Murs near the Vaucluse mountains, was built between the 12th and 18th centuries.
The oldest remains, dating back to the 12th century, were built by the d'Agoult family as a fortified garrison with ramparts and a tower, now located in the western part of the current castle. Around the same time, a village church served both as a chapel and parish, featuring a small cloister.
In the 13th century, the 'Maison Crillon' was built as a residence for visiting lords. In 1462, the property was transferred to the Astouaud family, who expanded and refined the castle, adding a central keep with a chapel and justice hall. In the Renaissance period, they built a new house beside the Maison Crillon.
In the 18th century, Jean-Baptiste François d’Astouaud, Marquis of Murs, added gardens and a grand iron gate bearing the family coat of arms. By the French Revolution, the castle had fallen into neglect.
Restoration began in the mid-19th century, led by the Vayson family. The poet and artist Paul Vayson, a descendant, described the castle’s haunting beauty, with its ivy-covered walls, crumbling battlements, and nesting swallows.
Complete restoration was achieved in the mid-20th century. Today, the castle remains private and is not open to the public.
The Broch of Clickimin is a large and well preserved, though somewhat restored broch near Lerwick. Originally built on an island in Clickimin Loch (now increased in size by silting and drainage), it was approached by a stone causeway. The water-level in the loch was reduced in 1874, leaving the broch high and dry. The broch is situated within a walled enclosure and, unusually for brochs, features a large 'blockhouse' between the opening in the enclosure and the broch itself. Another unusual feature is a stone slab featuring sculptured footprints, located in the causeway which approached the site. Situated across the loch is the Clickimin Leisure Centre.