640-year-old castle found under hotel in France

Archaeologists find remains of a 14th-century castle in the courtyard of Hotel Lagorce, which operated until recently in the Vannes region of western France

Archeologists have unearthed a castle reportedly called Chateau de l’Hermine, built in the 1380s by John IV, Duke of Brittany, in the courtyard of Hotel Lagorce, which until recently operated in the Vannes region of western France.

The National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP) announced in a press release on March 26 that archaeologists were surprised by how well-preserved the castle’s remains were during excavations last year.

The duke’s residence, thick walls, multiple staircases and a moat were found.

Clothes, padlocks, coins, kitchen utensils and jewelry reflecting daily life in the castle were also unearthed.

Between the 10th and 16th centuries, Brittany was a feudal state established after the Vikings were expelled from the region. The rulers of the small administrative unit were determined by lineage. John IV, who came to power in 1365, built many castles, which he also used as homes.

Chateau de l’Hermine was only used for about a hundred years, as John IV’s grandson Francis II moved the seat of the duchy from Vannes.

The plan of the castle was not fully known until the works, which began in 2021, yielded results.

It was reported to be 42 meters by 17 meters and the thickness of its walls was 5.5 meters.

Drainage pipes and toilets reaching three to four stories high were also discovered.

Source: Newsroom