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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Château de Beaurevoir, which was built in the 12th century, was rebuilt in the early 14th century by the family of the Counts of Luxembourg-Ligny. Located on the Scheldt border, it played a strategic role in regional conflicts. Its architecture combines philippian and English influences, with a cylindrical dungeon connected to the courtines, typical of medieval fortresses.

In 1430 John II of Luxembourg imprisoned Joan of Arc there for four months before delivering her to the English. The castle, passed under royal control, became an issue between Catholics and Protestants in the 16th century, then coveted by the Spaniards in the 17th century. Louis XIV ordered its dismantling in 1674, leaving only remains, including the Jeanne d'Arc tower, classified as a Historic Monument in 1920.

In the 18th century, the site belonged to the Marquis de Nesle. After the Revolution, one individual acquired the last remains, accelerating their destruction. Today, only the Jeanne d'Arc tower remains, deep ditches of 10 meters and traces of house. The undergrounds, partially preserved, bear witness to the defensive importance of the castle, described as a "massive and well towered fortress" by the traveller Dubuisson.

The castle illustrates medieval architectural principles, with mâchicoulis with console inspired by Château-Gaillard and a dungeon integrated with the ramparts, similar to the castle of Buveuil in Rouen. Its history reflects the political and religious tensions that marked the Hauts-de-France region, between the Kingdom of France, Burgundy and Flanders.

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