The medieval castle charged with child murders

The medieval castle of Château de Machecoul, a crucial fortification in the Marches of Bretagne, stands as a testament to the region's rich history. While the first fortification at the site was built by the Chabot family in the late 11th century, the current castle was built in the 13th century and diverts from it. Over the centuries, the castle had three distinct construction phases: a round tower at the beginning of the 13th century, a chatelet in the 15th century, and a soubassement of logis in the 1500s.

Among the many seigneurs and dukes who have owned it, Gilles de Rais, a notable military leader during the Hundred Years' War, is a notorious figure accused of child murders and sexual violence. His arrest, which took place in 1440, is a dark chapter in the history of Château de Machecoul. Today, only a few ruins of the castle remain, including a donjon, a herse, and a pont-levis, making it an intriguing destination for those interested in learning about the region's past.

However, Gilles de Rais should not be credited with building the castle, as the incorrect reference to the Chabot family as its builders has been removed.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons