Medieval French Castles

  There are many medieval castles in France few of which are major tourist attractions. These are magnificent constructions and dot the skyline of the country. The castles, built mostly of stones were used for a variety of purposes. These served as Christian abbeys and were also used as a defense against attackers. Medieval castles dominate the landscape of Europe. The construction of castles increased manifold during the middle ages due to the desire of the feudal lords to provide protection to the residents of the kingdoms. Castles served a utilitarian role in the society of those times. These were fortresses and were of simple built.

  It was the artistic bent of mind of King William from Normandy which led to castles being constructed not to serve any purpose but simply for their grandeur and beauty. The French castles gradually started evolving from being simple structures of stone to elaborate structures.

  Some of the most important medieval French castles are:

Avignon

  This medieval castle is situated in Vaucluse. It was constructed in the 1300s by the Popes who were exiled from Italy. The castle has a remarkable architecture and the buildings are asymmetrical but ordered. The architecture of the castle brings together elements of the Italian and French styles.

Folix

  This structure is situated in Ariege in the Pyrenees Mountains. Initially the structure was just a basic castle but later towers were built. There are merlons which stand at the top of all the towers and the walls of the structure. The structure is well protected against attackers.

Mont-Saint-Michel

  This castle situated in Normandy is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

Tarascon

  This medieval French castle was constructed beside the Rhone River. The structure is surrounded with water on all sides. This is a solid castle and was built in the late 14th century. Besides these, there are numerous other castles that have been built during the middle ages. Most of them have been restored to their former beauty by the many renovations undertaken by the government. A tour of the majestic medieval French castles would acquaint one with the royal life of the French in the bygone era.