Matignon Fortress (Forteresse des Matignon)
About Matignon Fortress (Forteresse des Matignon)
A 16th-century fortress built in 1558-1559 by order of King Henri II to defend against English attacks on the Chausey archipelago. The fort was placed under command of Jacques II de Matignon, Marshal of France, whose family governed the islands for over 230 years until the French Revolution. After being destroyed multiple times by the English (1694, 1744, 1758), the ruins were completely restored in 1922-1924 by automobile manufacturer Louis Renault, who transformed it into a private residence using 44,000 tons of granite and 200 workers. Today the fortress remains private property and cannot be visited inside, but its imposing silhouette is visible while walking around Grande Île, located about 300 meters from the ferry landing.
Interesting Facts
The Matignon family's connection to Monaco: Jacques IV de Matignon married Louise-Hippolyte Grimaldi in 1725 and became Prince Jacques I of Monaco. This union created a 300-year historical link between the Norman coast and the Mediterranean principality, with the Grimaldi family still ruling Monaco today.
During the restoration, Louis Renault had materials delivered by special train from Paris to Granville. The project used 44,000 tons of granite and 85,000 roof tiles, with 200 workers completing the massive reconstruction in just 14 months between January 1923 and Easter 1924.
Jacques II de Matignon, the first governor of the fortress, was a complex historical figure. While he ruthlessly pursued and had his opponent Gabriel de Montgommery beheaded in Paris in 1574, he also showed mercy during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre by protecting Protestants in Saint-Lô from persecution.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Grande Île, Îles Chausey, 50400 Granville, France
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