Josselin Castle
Bretagne
Josselin Castle, located in the Morbihan department of Brittany, France, is a medieval fortress originally constructed around 1008 by Guéthénoc, viscount of Porhoët. Named after his son Goscelinus, the castle stands on a strategic rocky promontory overlooking the Oust valley. Over centuries, it witnessed multiple reconstructions, notably by Olivier V de Clisson after 1370, who built an imposing fortress with eight towers and a massive keep. The castle was partially demolished by Francis II, Duke of Brittany, in 1488, but later restored and transformed by Jean II of Rohan with Renaissance architectural elements, including a granite facade adorned with the badge of Anne of Brittany. The castle played a significant role during the Breton War of Succession and was involved in religious conflicts in the 16th and 17th centuries. It served various functions over time, including a prison and warehouse during the French Revolution. Today, it remains the residence of the Duke of Rohan and houses an extensive toy and doll museum with over 5,000 objects. The castle's architecture combines medieval fortifications with Renaissance artistry, making it a unique cultural and historical landmark in Brittany.
ヒント: The best time to visit Josselin Castle is during the warmer months when the gardens and surroundings are at their most vibrant. It is recommended to check the official website for opening hours and to consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during weekends and holidays. Visitors may benefit from reduced rates for groups, seniors, and children. Guided tours are available and offer valuable insights into the castle's rich history and collections. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to the castle's extensive grounds and uneven surfaces.
興味深い事実
- •The Battle of the Thirty in 1351, a famous chivalric contest, involved knights from Josselin Castle and nearby Ploërmel.
- •Henry II of England personally led the demolition of the castle in the 12th century and sowed salt into its ruins to prevent rebuilding.
- •The castle features a marble bust of the 13th Duke of Rohan, sculpted by Auguste Rodin in 1910.
- •Josselin Castle houses a toy and doll museum with over 5,000 objects, one of the largest collections in France.
- •The facade of the castle includes the badge of Anne of Brittany, Queen Consort of France, represented by the letter 'A' beneath a sculpted cord.
歴史
Josselin Castle was first established around 1008 by Guéthénoc, viscount of Porhoët, on a strategic site overlooking the Oust river.
The fortress was named after his son Goscelinus and played a vital role in regional power struggles.
It was demolished twice by Henry II of England in the 12th century but rebuilt soon after.
In the 14th century, Olivier V de Clisson acquired and fortified the castle extensively.
The castle changed hands and was partially destroyed and restored multiple times, notably during the Breton War of Succession and the religious wars of the 16th century.
Cardinal Richelieu dismantled parts of it in 1629 to reduce its military threat.
In the 19th century, the Duchess of Berry initiated restoration efforts, preserving the castle as a historic monument.
場所ガイド
The Keep and Towers14th century
The medieval keep, rebuilt by Olivier V de Clisson, is notable for its massive size, measuring roughly one hundred yards across, and is surrounded by eight defensive towers, exemplifying medieval military architecture.
Renaissance FacadeLate 15th to early 16th century
Constructed under Jean II of Rohan, the granite facade is an early example of Renaissance architecture in Brittany, adorned with Italian artistic influences and the emblem of Anne of Brittany.
Toy and Doll Museum
This museum within the castle hosts a collection exceeding 5,000 toys and dolls, showcasing the history and diversity of playthings through centuries.
Equestrian Statue of Olivier de Clisson
An impressive statue honoring Olivier de Clisson, a key historical figure who rebuilt the castle in the 14th century and served as Constable of France.
連絡先
電話: 02 97 22 36 45
