Ruines du Manoir de la Turmelière

At the back of a vast romantic park stands a massive château built at the end of the 19th century. Behind it, however, the curious visitor will discover the imposing remains of a medieval manor house, hidden by the trees. These ruins are those of Joachim Du Bellay's birthplace, the "poor house" that he missed in Rome.

The original château dates back to the 13th century and was restored in the 15th century by Perceval Chabot, the grandfather of Joachim Du Bellay's mother. At the time, La Turmelière was a stronghold where the Lords of Liré could entrench themselves in the event of war. The building's position, between steep hillsides and a small valley, made it virtually impregnable. The poet's maternal grandfather moved there in 1472.

Joachim Du Bellay was born at La Turmelière around 1522-1525. He spent his entire youth there, and it is certain that the bocage landscapes surrounding the château may have inspired the poet's attachment to the gentleness of Anjou...

A large part of the house was destroyed during the Vendée wars, but was later preserved to decorate the grounds of the estate in a romantic spirit.

So don't hesitate to come and stroll around the ruins of La Turmelière and let yourself be carried away by this medieval and bucolic atmosphere. The park is open every day from 6am to 10pm.