Details
Founded: c. 1180Category: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Late Capetians (France)
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Château de Saint-Jean-d'Angle was probably built in the 12th century, probably by Guillaume de Lusignan who belonged to one of the most powerful families of the Poitou region. From 1406 to the 17th century, the castle remained in the hands of the Saint-Gelais family, a younger branch of the de Lusignan family. The residence adjoining the original rampart dates back to the Renaissance.
In 1994, Alain Rousselot, a businessman from La Rochelle bought the site with the intention of saving it. Today it is open to the public and hosts a medieval theme park.
The Broch of Clickimin is a large and well preserved, though somewhat restored broch near Lerwick. Originally built on an island in Clickimin Loch (now increased in size by silting and drainage), it was approached by a stone causeway. The water-level in the loch was reduced in 1874, leaving the broch high and dry. The broch is situated within a walled enclosure and, unusually for brochs, features a large 'blockhouse' between the opening in the enclosure and the broch itself. Another unusual feature is a stone slab featuring sculptured footprints, located in the causeway which approached the site. Situated across the loch is the Clickimin Leisure Centre.