Fort La Latte
Bretagne
Fort La Latte, also known as the Castle of the Rock Goyon, is a remarkable medieval fortress located on a rocky promontory near Cap Fréhel in Brittany, France. Built in the 14th century by Étienne III Gouÿon, the Lord of Matignon, the castle was strategically positioned to guard important trade routes between Saint-Malo, Normandy, and the Channel Islands. Its imposing granite and sandstone walls rise dramatically from the cliffs, providing panoramic views of the English Channel and the Emerald Coast. The castle features two fortified gatehouses each with drawbridges, a barbican with a portcullis, a courtyard containing a water tank, chapel, and the central dungeon dating from 1365–1370. Over the centuries, Fort La Latte endured multiple sieges, notably by Bertrand Du Guesclin in 1379 and during the Wars of Religion in the 16th century, after which it was partially abandoned. Restored extensively in the 20th century by historian Frédéric Joüon Des Longrais, the castle has become a popular tourist destination and cultural venue, hosting medieval festivals and events. Its cinematic appeal is highlighted by appearances in films such as "The Vikings" (1958). The castle's unique blend of military architecture, dramatic coastal setting, and living history make it an exceptional site on the Bay of Saint-Malo.
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Tip: Visit between April and October when the castle is open daily. Purchase tickets in advance during peak summer months and festival periods to avoid queues. Explore during the medieval festivals in August for an immersive historical experience. Wear sturdy footwear for walking on rocky terrain and cliff paths. Check the official website for event schedules and guided tours. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and children.
Interesting facts
- •Fort La Latte was used as a filming location for the 1958 film "The Vikings" starring Kirk Douglas and Tony Curtis.
- •The castle appears in the music video for the French band Manau's song "La Tribu de Dana."
- •A fictionalized version of the castle features in the 2015 animated film "April and the Extraordinary World."
- •The castle is situated on cliffs that provide natural protection from sea invasions and offer expansive views of the English Channel and Emerald Coast.
- •Albert II, Prince of Monaco, a descendant of the castle's original owners, has visited the site multiple times.
- •The castle's restoration took over twenty years, led by an archaeologist passionate about preserving medieval heritage.
History
Constructed in the 1340s by Étienne III Gouÿon, Fort La Latte's dungeon was completed around 1365–1370.
It was besieged in 1379 by Bertrand Du Guesclin following the return of Duke Jean IV of Brittany from exile.
The castle suffered a second attack during the 16th-century Wars of Religion, leading to partial abandonment.
In the 18th century, under Louis XIV, it was fortified with bastions to restore its military relevance.
The castle remained in use until the end of the First Empire, after which advances in warfare rendered it obsolete.
From 1892, it passed through various private owners until historian Frédéric Joüon Des Longrais acquired it in 1931 and began extensive restoration work lasting over two decades.
It was officially classified as a historic monument in 1925, and electricity was installed only in 2001.
Place Guide
Barbican and Gatehouses14th century
The castle's first line of defense includes two gatehouses each equipped with a drawbridge and a portcullis. The barbican features a restored drawbridge, a battering ram, and a pillory. Visitors can also explore a small medieval garden and see a 'Bricole' catapult. The barbican offers panoramic views of the Bay of Saint-Malo.
Dungeon and Courtyard1365–1370
The central dungeon, dating from 1365–1370, dominates the courtyard which also contains a water tank, a chapel, and various defensive structures including former gun battery positions. This area illustrates the castle's military and domestic functions in medieval times.
Contact
Phone: 02 96 41 57 11
