Château de Clisson

The Château de Clisson stands as a medieval fortress along the Sèvre Nantaise river in Brittany, with origins tracing to the 11th century when it was first mentioned in 1040. Built progressively by the powerful de Clisson family from the 12th century onward, this strategic fortress features distinctive defensive architecture including archways and gunports that once protected the southern entrance to the Duchy of Brittany. Though severely damaged during the Vendée War of 1793, the château was conserved and romantically restored in the 19th century by sculptor François-Frédéric Lemot. Now ranked as a Historic Monument since 1924, it welcomes visitors with exhibitions and cultural events, offering insight into centuries of feudal power and architectural evolution.