Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Cambron Castle is a medieval building located in the commune of Fontaine-lès-Vervins, in the department of Aisne (Hauts-de-France). Dating from the 15th century, it was partially rebuilt in 1551 by Raoul III of Coucy-Poilcourt, a member of a noble line linked to the royal court. This castle embodies the defensive and residential architecture of the Renaissance, while bearing the traces of the successive transformations carried out by its owners.

The family of Coucy-Poilcourt, notably Raoul III, marked the history of the castle until his death in 1561. His heirs, from two marriages, perpetuated the lineage, like Étienne d'Ivory, husband of Charlotte de Cambron, whose family arms ("sand, with 3 besant silver") testify to their aristocratic status. In the 17th century, the castle passed to Monjot, another noble family, with Adrien de Monjot marrying Anne d'Ivory in 1642, thus consolidating local alliances.

The castle was listed as historic monuments in 1928, especially for its tower, reflecting its heritage importance. Today, private property, it retains significant architectural elements, although its access and current use (visits, rentals) are not specified in the sources. Its history illustrates the seigneurial dynamics and architectural changes between the Middle Ages and the modern era.

The heraldic weapons of successive families (Ivory, Monjot) recall their power and prestige. The Ivory, native to Artois, and the Monjot, carrying "three silver clovers", left a lasting imprint on this monument. The archives also mention recognized natural children, such as Isabeau and Jeanne, highlighting the inheritance practices of the time.

The location of the castle in the hamlet of Cambron at Fontaine-lès-Vervins is attested by GPS coordinates and cadastral references (Insee code 02321). Its inscription in 1928 specifically concerns the tower, an emblematic element of its defensive structure. Available sources (Wikipedia, Monumentum) confirm its status as a protected monument, although details of its current conservation are lacking.

Finally, the castle is part of a broader heritage network, linked to the Archaeological Society of Vervins and the historical monuments of Aisne. Its history reflects the stakes of power, heritage and architecture of the regional elites, between Picardie and Hauts-de-France.

External links