Construction of the castle Moyen Âge (≈ 1125)
Construction period not specified
17 octobre 1997
Classification of historical monuments
Classification of historical monuments 17 octobre 1997 (≈ 1997)
Protection of the moth, lower yard and ditches
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Ground and basement, including ditches (Case 323B 47, Placedit Le Bourg, 48, Placedit Cour du Ham): inscription by order of 17 October 1997
Key figures
Information non disponible - No character mentioned
Sources insufficient to identify historical actors
Origin and history
The Ham fort is a medieval archaeological site located in the commune of Hotot-en-Auge, Calvados department, Normandy. This monument is an ancient château, characteristic of the defensive architecture of the Middle Ages. It consists of an oval motte, surrounded by a bassyard, separated by a ditch now partially filled. The ensemble is located at the place called Le Bourg and Cour du Ham, on a precise cadastral hold.
The site was classified as historic monuments on 17 October 1997, protecting the castral mound, the lower yard and ditches. This official recognition underscores the heritage importance of this medieval vestige, although the available sources do not specify its detailed history or any owners or builders. Protected elements also include the soil and basement of the site, ensuring the preservation of potential archaeological traces.
In medieval times, strong houses and castles played a key role in the feudal organization of Normandy. These structures served as both seigneurial residences, local administrative centres and strategic defence points. Hotot-en-Auge, like other villages in the region, was probably organized around this type of monument, reflecting a rural society marked by the ties of vassality and the protection of surrounding agricultural land.
