Château de Gratot
About Château de Gratot
The Château de Gratot stands as partially restored medieval ruins 4 km from Coutances in Normandy. Built between the 13th and 18th centuries, the castle belonged to the d'Argouges family for 526 years across 15 generations. Four towers from different periods survive, including the Tour à la Fée (Fairy Tower) associated with a local legend about a fairy who married a lord and vanished when he spoke a forbidden word. Visitors can explore the remaining structures, moat system still fed by the original spring, and a permanent exhibition about the site's history. The château hosts contemporary art exhibitions during summer months.
Interesting Facts
According to legend, visitors can still see the handprint left by the Fairy Andaine on the Tour à la Fée window, marking the spot where she vanished after her husband accidentally spoke the forbidden word "Death" (Mort in French).
In 1925, local farmer Jean Tiphaigne purchased the ruined château to save it from complete destruction. His initiative led to volunteer-driven restoration starting in 1968, which earned the "Chefs d'œuvre en péril" television award in 1971 for heritage preservation.
The Round Tower's spiral staircase was designed with a sudden narrowing section specifically to prevent two attackers from climbing side by side - a medieval defensive feature that forced enemies into single file.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
General Admission
RecommendedLocation & Practical Info
Address
80 rue d'Argouges, 50200 Gratot, France
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