What is a feudal motte?

A motte is an artificial or raised earth mound, usually surrounded by ditches, that served as the base for a medieval fortress. It typically supported a wooden or stone tower.

Why are there three mottes at Garenne-de-la-Motte?

According to historical records, multiple mottes formed a defensive network in the Perche borderlands; this site preserves three visible examples.

Can you walk on the mottes?

Yes, the earthworks are accessible on foot and the ditches remain visible, allowing you to explore the structure in place.

Motte castrale de Garenne-de-la-Motte

Igé

Access

No visits on recordNo opening hours or ticketing found

Where: Igé

To make a day of it

Open within 20 km

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Manoir de Lormaringrounds open in summer during exhibitions, Friday to Sunday from 2pm to 7pm or by appointment; exhibition from 20 June to 12 July 2026; exhibition from 19 July to 16 August 2026; exhibition from 16 August to 20 September 202615 km

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Motte féodale Garenne-de-la-Motte stands in Igé (Orne), in the Normandie region of France. The building is registered as a historic monument (dating recorded in the Mérimée database: Middle Ages). The building is privately owned and no visits are on record.

The Garenne-de-la-Motte is a feudal motte located in Igé, in Orne. It is part of the medieval defensive network of the Perche region and comprises three distinct earthworks, with the Bois de la Roche motte forming the main element. Although the bailey has disappeared, the ditches remain clearly visible around this mound which extends over 80 to 100 metres in circumference at its base.

What to know

This is an open-air archaeological structure with no buildings, best explored on foot.
Three mottes make up the complex; visitors can explore the different levels and surviving ditches.
The site, listed as a historic monument since 1975, is located in a rural setting.

Where this château is

Igé · Orne · Normandie

Map of the area around Motte féodale Garenne-de-la-Motte

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This châteauChâteaux within 40 km

Address

Igé, Orne

Directions open from wherever you are, by car or public transport.

Get directions View on a map

Heritage status: Registered historic monument (inscrit); Mérimée record PA00110826
Period of construction: Middle Ages

Itineraries

Normandy castles in 2 days from Caen

Frequently asked

What is a feudal motte?: A motte is an artificial or raised earth mound, usually surrounded by ditches, that served as the base for a medieval fortress. It typically supported a wooden or stone tower.
Why are there three mottes at Garenne-de-la-Motte?: According to historical records, multiple mottes formed a defensive network in the Perche borderlands; this site preserves three visible examples.
Can you walk on the mottes?: Yes, the earthworks are accessible on foot and the ditches remain visible, allowing you to explore the structure in place.