THERE are some 4,000 castles in Brittany, and among this number are some wonderful examples of medieval military architecture. Most castles were built to defend the Bretons from their most implacable enemy - the French! Few other regions had such fortresses and though many were destroyed or have fallen into ruin, a number are still standing.

Thanks to careful maintenance, repair and sensitive restoration, these castles have survived remarkably well and can be seen today in much of their former strength and glory. Collectively they reflect continuous change in society through ten centuries of war and peace.

Château de Trévarez

Forteresse de Largoët - The Towers of Elven

Château de Ranrouet, Herbignac