Construction of the moth Avant 1207 (≈ 1207)
Built by Pierre Bertin, Senechal of Henri II.
19 avril 1989
Registration for historical monuments
Registration for historical monuments 19 avril 1989 (≈ 1989)
Protection of remains and soil.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Castral motte du Breuil-Bertin: all the remains and soil of the plots (Box B 717, 718, 781, 782): inscription by order of 19 April 1989
Key figures
Pierre Bertin - Senechal of Henri II Plantagenet
Commander of the moth before 1207.
Jean Métayer - Archaeologist
Directed the site searches.
Origin and history
The Breuil-Bertin is a medieval site in Saint-Ouen-d'Aunis, Charente-Maritime department, New Aquitaine. This monument, characteristic of the defensive buildings of the Middle Ages, consists of a motte surrounded by two enclosures of earth and ditches. Archaeological excavations, carried out notably by Jean Métayer, revealed important earthworks as well as carved elements on the motte, suggesting the presence of a stone building. An underground gallery was also identified in the lower yard, attesting to the complexity of this fortified site.
The construction of this castral motte is attributed to Pierre Bertin, Senechal of Henry II Plantagenet, and dates back to before 1207. This type of fortification, common in feudal times, served as both a seigneurial residence and a strategic defence point. The motte and its remains were protected by an inscription as historic monuments on 19 April 1989, recognizing their heritage and historical value.
Archaeological research has highlighted the technical and architectural aspects of this site. The earthworks and carved elements discovered on the motte indicate the existence of a stone structure, probably a dungeon or a tower. The underground gallery in the lower yard may have served as a passage or storage, reflecting the logistical and defensive needs of the occupants. These discoveries enrich the understanding of construction techniques and the spatial organization of the castral mots in Poitou-Charentes during the Middle Ages.
