Château de Mez-le-Maréchal

Château de Mez-le-Maréchal lies in the woods east of the town of Dordives. It was built in the early 13th century by Henry I Clément. The castle stayed in the hands of the Clément family until the end of the 13th century when they died out. In 1314 it passed into the royal domain and was acquired by Philip IV of France.

Up until the early 16th century Mez-le-Maréchal Castle was used by the French kings as a currency in exchange for loyalty from several military leaders. Its only military feat was when it was taken by English troops who were retreating from Montargis, in 1427.

In later centuries it went through the hands of numerous families and was sold a couple of times. It was used as a residence until the mid-18th century, after which it fell to ruin and was used as a quarry by the locals. In 2016 it was finally acquired by Florian Renucci, the master-mason of Guédelon Castle, which is a new 20th century castle being built in 12th century style in the French department of Burgundy.

Mez-le-Maréchal Castle was built in the style of French military architecture of the 13th century, called 'Philippian' after Philip II of France. It consists of a square enclosure with round towers at its corners and a gate, protected by 2 more round towers, in the middle of the north face.

References:

• castles.nl

Address

Route de Bransles 6210, Dordives, France

Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Late Capetians (France)