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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Château de Campbon, located in the municipality of the same name in the Loire-Atlantique, is an emblematic monument of the Pays de la Loire region. Built mainly in the 11th and 13th centuries, it bears witness to medieval military architecture. A honeycomb from 1008, discovered near the tower, attests to its ancient origin. This castle was originally the seat of a chestnut, playing a strategic role in the region.

In the 14th century, the castle became an aft-fief of Clisson's family, a powerful Breton line, before passing into the hands of the Rohan, an influential noble family. Later, he was possessed by Arthur de Montauban, then by the Barons of Pontchâteau. In 1565, the châtellenie was acquired by René du Cambout, lord of Coislin. By 1681, the castle was already in ruins, marking the end of its use as a fortress or seigneurial residence.

The current remains of Campbon Castle consist of about ten metres of ramparts and a circular tower, called the Tower of Hell. This tower, which still had two levels in 1850, preserves medieval architectural elements, such as a bay with its archature and its cushion. The monument was listed as historic monuments in 1934, recognizing its heritage value.

The castle illustrates the evolution of feudal structures in Brittany and the Pays de la Loire, moving from a defensive role to a symbol of seigneurial power. Its history reflects the political and social changes in the region, especially through the noble families that owned it. Today, there remains a tangible testimony of this time, accessible to visitors interested in medieval history.

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