Ivy grows in a heart shape surrounding an indentation in stone walls.
A bridge to the castle crosses over what was once a moat, but is now filled with verdant green grass. Montreuil-sur-mer was built in Roman times, when the sea ran up the estuary of the Canche. The first protective ramparts were built in the 9th Century by the Count of Ponthieu. In the 10th Century, Montreuil became the main sea port of the Capétiens.
From the 11th-13th centures, the city was renowned further for its cloth industry. Its eight churches with a remarkable collection of saints' relics drew pilgrims from far and wide. In 1186 the royal castle - of which only two towers remain - was built under charter granted by Philip Auguste.
As the estuary filled with silt, the port fell silent. Montreuil emerged from the Hundred Years’ War in ruins. The town was plundered by Henry XVIII of England and Charles V of Spain, who laid siege but were rebuffed by the medieval walls. In 1586 much of Montreuil's citizens succumbed to the plague.
Under Francois I, the town was recaptured and its fortifications modified. It subsequently became a major stronghold against Spanish forces. During the reign of Louis XIV, the ramparts were strengthened and modernized. In 1837 the western flank of Napoleon's Camp of Boulogne was headquartered in Montreuil.
This former moat had water lapping against the walls to keep intruders at bay.
Over time, this stone wall has acquired a patina of moss and lichen. It is located in a shaded area along the path leading to the castle.
Plants grow through spaces in the wall leading to the remnants of a castle, now a museum.
The view when exiting interior walls of the fortress.
The expression "storming the ramparts" came from invading armies trying to scale fortified exterior walls surrounding a city, such as these at Montreuil-sur-mer.
An interior view of the ramparts, with narrow openings through which one can glimpse the valley below the citadel.
These narrow crevices were used to fire weapons in warning against unwanted visitors.
Trees at one end of the fortress overlook the green valley.
These photos are just lovely. You both must be having so much fun.
Posted by: bella | 04 May 2007 at 06:42
Absolutely love these photos! Looks like a gorgeous place.
Posted by: Kamsin | 01 May 2007 at 21:30
it must be years since i was there - must remedy that soon. I had forgotten just how mesmerising Montreuil-sur-mer is
Posted by: paul | 01 May 2007 at 11:06
What a wonderful tour! How beautiful! A treat for the eyes! And interesting! I a mso happy to be back on line and visiting your wonderful , delicious Parfait! thank you ! I truly missed you!
Posted by: pam aries | 01 May 2007 at 01:27
As usual, your post and pictures are perfect.. I love in that second picture, the iron arch with the curl is nestled perfect inside the stone arch. It's visually pleasing!!
xoxo
Posted by: hollibobolli | 01 May 2007 at 00:47
It looks so beautiful!
Posted by: Lynda | 30 April 2007 at 22:28
I love your eye for the perfect photos Tara.
Posted by: Britt-Arnhild | 30 April 2007 at 21:40
Wonderful photo journey, Tara! You bring history to life with your posts - thank you for taking us along! XO
Posted by: tinker | 30 April 2007 at 21:21
That looks like a great place to poke around. How restful.
Posted by: Pearl | 30 April 2007 at 20:33
Wonderful! I have a patina of moss and lichen on the dry stone wall around my cottage but I have no moat. Poor me.
Posted by: Di Overton | 30 April 2007 at 20:10
Wonderful pictures of great old places!
Posted by: shabbyinthecity | 30 April 2007 at 19:25
great pics....and great historical summary of the area. It oozes with such remarkable history. I would love to visit the area.
Posted by: awareness | 30 April 2007 at 19:14
I loved these photos - reminds me of the time we spent in the castle district. I especially love the gun crevice shot.
Posted by: kristen | 30 April 2007 at 17:53
I really enjoyed the photos today; this is some place I would truely like to visit.
Posted by: AscenderRisesAbove | 30 April 2007 at 15:49
Beautiful scenery and your commentary is perfect. :)
Just wanted to let you know that I'll be away from blogging next month. I'll miss all your great posts. (((hugs)))
Posted by: Brian | 30 April 2007 at 15:18
Tara,
Thank-you for the view. I always learn so much from your postings.
Your a a gifted journalist.
Have a wonderful day.
Give my love to France.
xo
Robin
Posted by: Robin Sherwood | 30 April 2007 at 14:17