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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Château de la Motte, also known as the Old Castle, is a fortress located in Arthel, in the Nièvre department (Bourgogne-Franche-Comté). Built in the 15th century on the bases of a 12th century strong house belonging to the Counts of Nevers, he was responsible for monitoring an ancient Roman way from Montenegro to Entrains. This first castle, surrounded by a rectangular enclosure flanked by round towers, was partially abandoned before being bought and restored.

In the 15th century, a house was built at the location of the southern courtyard, adjacent to a large corner tower serving as a dwelling. This tower, with cannon guns, bolt holes and shorts, illustrates the military adaptations of the time. The north facade, which was rebuilt at the end of the 16th century, has a broken pediment door whose shield was staked during the Revolution. The commons, added in the 18th century against the north courtine, and the large carriageway pierced in the west courtine testify to subsequent modifications for more residential use.

The castle has been partially protected since 15 July 1985: its towers, courtyards, elevations, roofs and commons are listed in the Historical Monuments. Although private property and not accessible to the public, there remains a remarkable example of the architectural evolution of medieval fortresses in Burgundy. The traces of cannon guns, the screw staircase and the trilobed pediment windows recall its double defensive and seigneurial role.

Historical sources mention his initial membership of the Counts of Nevers, but the names of the later lords or revolutionary owners are not specified in the available documents. The site, located along RD 140, maintains a strategic location inherited from its road surveillance history.

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