HEDGEHOG FORTRESS
Go there and contact
A fortress built on a motte-shaped rock, it is now one of the most important strongholds of the Dukes of Bourbon.
Built on a rock cut into a mound and separated from the plateau above the ford of the river, it was an important strategic point, already constituting a place of defense of the ancient oppidum of Cordes and its castrum. The first fortification was built in the 10th and 11th centuries. Two keeps were then joined by high walls and entirely rebuilt until the 15th century. The rock is flanked by eight towers and a square keep, joined by an enclosure. The lower courtyard contains the chapel, the lodgings, the workshops and the stables, protected by three towers and high walls. It became one of the most important strongholds of the Dukes of Bourbon. Archambaud I is said to have gotten lost with his pack of dogs during a hunting trip. His favourite is said to have chased a hedgehog which curled up into a ball to protect itself. The attitude of the animal and the strategic situation of the place would have motivated the construction of the fortress. From the 15th to the 17th century, the fortress had an eventful history. In 1650, it was almost taken by the troops of the Prince of Condé, then it was taken back by the royal troops after a long siege. Thereafter it was abandoned and dismantled. It now belongs to the commune of Hérisson. A panel installed at the entrance of the public garden presents a reconstruction of the castle, as it appeared in the 15th century. Thanks to the remains of this vast fortress, Hérisson is part of the 2021 selection of the "Village Préféré des Français" broadcast on France 3.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on HEDGEHOG FORTRESS
