Незвідане / Неизведанное / Ignotus: 2024

The Castle of La Calahorra is a Spanish

The Castle of La Calahorra is a Spanish castle located in the town of La Calahorra, in the autonomous community of Andalusia and the province of Granada.

Built from an ancient Moorish fortress, the castle was built at the foot of the Sierra Nevada between 1509 and 1512. It is one of the first Italian Renaissance castles built outside Italy. The Marquis Don Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar y Mendoza, following a stay in Italy from 1506 to 1508, had it built, entrusting its design to Genoese craftsmen to treat the monument "in the Italian style". The architectural and decorative elements are inspired in particular by the repertoire of antique ornaments brought back from Italy by the Marquis around 1509, the Codex Escurialensis. The Renaissance style appears for example in the inner courtyard of the castle, whose upper floor has a colonnade with Corinthian capitals and a balustrade.

It was declared a property of cultural interest in 1922. It is privately owned.

Medieval City Walls (12th-13th Centuries CE) of Provins, Seine-et-Marne, France

Medieval City Walls (12th-13th Centuries CE) of Provins, Seine-et-Marne, France.

The historic walled city of Provins is an outstanding and authentic example of a medieval fair town in Champagne, a region that was an important centre of exchange, and which witnessed, together with the rise of trading fairs in 11th Century CE, the beginning of significant international trade in Europe.

Of international scope, these trade fairs which targeted merchants and traders required protection of long-distance freight transport between Europe and East, encouraging development of activities such as banking and foreign exchange, as well as productive activities (tanning, dyeing, cloth trade). The urban layout and the medieval dwellings that remain in Provins are an outstanding example of an architectural ensemble built specially to fulfill these functions. This complex includes merchant houses, vaulted cellars and warehouses, outdoor spaces for trade, and religious ensembles. The city is also known for its well-preserved defense system, which was built for the protection of the fairs.

At beginning of 2nd Millennium, Provins was one of several towns in the territory of the Counts of Champagne that became venues for great annual trading fairs linking northern Europe with the Mediterranean world. Provins preserves to a high degree the architecture and urban layout that characterize these great medieval fair towns.

Although Provins suffered some destruction during Hundred Years War in 14th-15th Centuries CE, as well as during French Revolution, it was quite minimal. The urban plan of medieval town is well preserved, as are a large part of the historic buildings, canals and the water management system. Some 150 historic houses have preserved their medieval vaulted cellars, intended for the storage of goods. Despite minor changes since 17th Century CE, city has preserved its integrity and that of the places associated with various functions of the fairs. The relationship of the upper town with the plains of Plateau Briard is also intact. The new buildings in the lower town respect the volumes of ensemble and integrate nicely with historic buildings.

Due to its economic decline, but also to the persistence of its urban functions, the medieval fairs town of Provins remains relatively intact to this day. Open spaces, cellars, public and religious buildings and fortifications have preserved the medieval character of the fairgrounds.

Chateau de Roquetaillade, a medieval castle nestled in the picturesque countryside of Mazères (near Bordeaux), in southwestern France

Chateau de Roquetaillade, a medieval castle nestled in the picturesque countryside of Mazères (near Bordeaux), in southwestern France.

The castle stands as a timeless symbol of medieval grandeur and architectural mastery. Dating back to 10th Century CE, this formidable fortress has witnessed centuries of history unfold within its stone walls. Its name, derived from Occitan language meaning "rocky slope," aptly describes its commanding position atop a rugged hillside overlooking rolling landscape. With its distinctive blend of Gothic and Renaissance elements, the chateau's imposing towers, fortified walls and intricate stone carvings evoke a sense of awe and wonder. The inner courtyard, adorned with elegant arches and delicate sculptures, transports visitors back in time to an era of chivalry and nobility.

Charlemagne, on his way to Pyrenees with Roland, built first fortification there. Of this old castle, nothing remains but imposing ruins. In 1306 CE, with the permission of English King Edward I, Cardinal de la Mothe, nephew of Pope Clement V built a second fortress (le Château Neuf). This new castle was square in plan with six towers and a central keep. Entire structure was restored and transformed by Viollet-le-Duc and one of his pupils, Duthoit, between 1860-1870 CE. Extraordinary interior decorations, with its furnishings and paintings, were created by Viollet-le-Duc and are listed as French Heritage.

The castle owned by same noble family for over 700 years, Chateau de Roquetaillade bears witness to the passage of time through its evolving architectural styles and richly adorned interiors. Visitors can explore its opulent rooms, adorned with tapestries, antique furniture and priceless works of art, each telling a story of the castle's illustrious past. Beyond its architectural splendor, chateau's sprawling grounds offer a haven of tranquility and natural beauty. Lush gardens, manicured lawns, and ancient oak trees provide a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls and contemplative moments.

The château park includes remains of the medieval curtain wall with the barbican, Pesquey stream and its banks, 19th Century CE, chalet, and Crampet pigeon loft. It has been listed since 1976 as a monument historique by French Ministry of Culture and is open to the public.

Today, the castle has been lived in by the same family for over 700 years. It has been open to the public since 1956 and is most visited in Bordeaux region. Open all year round, visits in English with owners are also possible. Chateau de Roquetaillade stands as a testament to France's rich cultural heritage and serves as a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and curious travelers alike, inviting them to step into the past and immerse themselves in the enchanting world of medieval France.

Other activities at the castle include a famous production of white Graves wines, "Chateau Fort de Roquetaillade", and Bazadais cattle breeding. The castle been used as a location in several films, including Fantômas contre Scotland Yard and Le Pacte des loups (Brotherhood of the Wolf). © loic.lagarde