Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

Mornay's fief is mentioned for the first time in 1151 in the cartular of the abbey of Notre-Dame de Fontmorigny, with a first attested construction around the middle of the 12th century. These ancient traces testify to an early occupation of the site, long before the construction of the present fortress.

The construction of the present fortress, superimposed on the 12th century building, dates back to the middle of the 13th century. Its geographical position on the demarcation line between the Nivernais and the Berry made it a key defence element during the Hundred Years' War. Its architecture, typical of shell fortresses, makes it a rare example in France.

In the 18th century, the house was restored and transformed into a home for a local operator, who installed a brickwork tile in the lower courtyard. Later, this activity was replaced by a farm, marking a transition to civil and economic use. The castle was finally listed as historical monuments on 30 June 2009.

Architecturally, the fortress is distinguished by a quasi circular platform surrounded by moat nearly ten metres wide, accessible by a single tower protected by an assumption. This tower, initially surmounted by niches, was modified by the addition of a covered floor with heavy loads, accessible via a screw staircase. A monumental fireplace adorns the upper floor, reflecting later developments.

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