Château d'Apremont

The history of Château d'Apremont begins with a fortification from the 11th century, strategically located on the north bank of the Vie River. This early fortress was only accessible from the north, while it was protected to the south by the river and to the east and west by natural depressions. In 1468, the complex was besieged by 3000 Bretons who sought to free prisoners. From around 1534, Philippe Chabot, an Admiral of France, had a castle built on this site. This castle is among the first Renaissance buildings in the Vendée and was characterized by its mullioned windows and two large round towers, which, despite their modern balconies, still exhibited medieval defensive features. A special feature was a continuous frieze with maritime symbols, commemorating Chabot's admiral title. Chabot also planned a unique landing stage for ships and a rider's archway through which visitors could enter directly into the castle courtyard. However, his plans were abruptly ended by his death in 1543, after he had fallen from grace and had to cede the estate. The castle changed hands several times and came into the possession of the Montmorency-Luxembourg family in the 17th century. In 1622, King Louis XIII stayed here. In 1733, the last owner ordered the demolition of the buildings, as their maintenance had become too costly. The stones were sold and partly used for the construction of the Pirmil Bridge in Nantes. In 1742, the castle was occupied by the Spanish, plundered, and set on fire.

The Château d'Apremont is located in the commune of Apremont in the Vendée department, in the Pays de la Loire region of France, at an elevation of approximately 19 meters above sea level.

Today, of the once magnificent complex, the two round towers, a chapel, and a winding ramp remain. The ruin has been a registered Monument historique since 1926, and the castle chapel since 1975. A reconstructed part connecting the two towers now houses the Apremont town hall. Since 1978, the complex has been undergoing restoration with state and departmental support.

• Château de l'Audardière (castle), approx. 2.3 km away
• Château de Les Essarts (castle), approx. 39.6 km away
• Château de Montaigu (castle), approx. 41.1 km away
• Abbaye Notre-Dame de la Grainetière (religious building), approx. 52.8 km away