Medieval occupation XIIe siècle (≈ 1250)
Ceramic production tracks (source)
10 décembre 1981
MH classification
MH classification 10 décembre 1981 (≈ 1981)
Protection for historical monuments
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Protohistoric enclosure in earth (Box B 714, 722): classification by decree of 10 December 1981
Key figures
Information non disponible - No character cited
Sources do not mention any historical actors
Origin and history
The enclosure of the Fontenelle is a protohistoric archaeological site located in Vievy-le-Rayé, in the department of Loir-et-Cher (Centre-Val de Loire). Located on a barred spur between two valleys, it consists of ramparts on the ground, deep ditches and two castral mounds exceeding 20 meters high. The site, with an area of 7.64 hectares, is protected by a wide ditch on the plateau and an internal rampart, forming an elongated trapeze.
The site, classified as a historical monument by decree of 10 December 1981, has an ancient occupation, although its precise chronology remains unclear. A notable feature is the Devil's hole, a cavity of 9 meters deep dug in one of the mots. Close to the Forest of Marchenoir and the Blois-Châteaudun Road, the enclosure illustrates techniques of earth fortification before the medieval era.
Excavations and studies mention rural ceramic production in the 12th century, suggesting reuse or subsequent occupation of the site. The bibliographical references cite works on castral mots and medieval undergrounds, but do not specify their direct link to the protohistoric period. The absence of architectural remains in stone confirms its early and strictly earthy character.
