Château de Commequiers

The castle's origins date back to the 11th century, with an early mention suggesting a possible motte-and-bailey castle under the influence of the Viscounts of Thouars. The current structure largely took shape in the second half of the 15th and early 16th centuries under Louis de Beaumont, who had it rebuilt using white stone from Sallertaine. In 1628, the castle was demolished on the orders of Cardinal Richelieu. Later, it was owned by the Protestant de la Trémoille family and changed hands several more times until the French Revolution. The ruin was registered as a historical monument in 1926 and officially declared a Monument historique in 2023.

The castle ruin is situated in the municipality of Commequiers in the Vendée department, a region of Pays de la Loire in western France, at an elevation of approximately 15 meters above sea level.

The remains of the castle, characterized by its round towers and water-filled moats, are accessible to visitors. The municipality owns the site, and the association “Les Amis du Vieux Château” manages its upkeep and organizes cultural events, including the annual medieval festival “Médievales”.