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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Château d'Aigues-Mortes, located in the commune of Venesmes in the Centre-Val de Loire region, dates from the 15th and 16th centuries. This historic monument retains characteristic elements of the defensive architecture of this period, including a partially preserved triangular enclosure. The northern and eastern portions of this enclosure still remain today, while the western courtine has disappeared. A circular turret, pierced by narrow murderers, flanks the southeast corner of the site. Access to this tower was through the south courtyard, and its entrance was protected by a drawbridge crossing moats, now missing.

The front door, in the middle of the hanger, was defended by a steeple of which only three crows remain. The north court was later replaced by residential buildings, thus partially changing the original structure of the castle. This site, inscribed in the Historical Monuments by decree of 27 March 1926, illustrates the architectural adaptations of late medieval fortresses, combining defensive and residential functions.

The remains of the castle of Aigues-Mortes, although partially altered, offer an overview of the fortification techniques in force at the hinge of the 15th and 16th centuries. The absence of the western courtine and the transformations of the northern courtine reflect the changes in the use of these buildings, often converted into dwellings after the loss of their initial military role. The circular turret, with its murderers and its protected access system, remains the most emblematic element of this defensive heritage.

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