The Village of Coutances~
Coutances is built on a narrow height that stretches from north to south to the altitude of 91 meters.
The south, west and east sides of the hill are quite steep, and down quickly to Prépont valleys east of the Soulle Bulsard south and west, which are the three rivers that surround the site the city.
Cultural and historical capital of the Cotentin, Coutances, dominated by its Gothic cathedral, invites you to discover and to linger. The churches of St. Peter and St. Nicolas, garden plants, old streets and mansions give the city a charm that has not diminished the reconstruction of post-war. Close to the city's museums Saussey manor and Castle Gratot are an invitation to wander off the beaten track.
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Castle Gratot~
Just a few miles outside of Coutance you will find the Chateau de Gratot.
The first Château de Gratot was built during the 14th century, but underwent many transformations until the 18th century. It was constructed by the family of Argouges, barons of Gratot: they sold the castle in 1771. The castle is built in a number of styles, the most recent addition being a pavilion built in the 18th century.
The castle was neglected in the 19th century, and was used as a fodder warehouse for local farmers. It was definitively abandoned at the start of the 20th century. Since 1968 it has been recovering its past glories owing to a team of volunteers who restore it lovingly. The main restoration work took place in the late 60's and 70's, requiring tonnes of rubble to be removed from the cellars and ground floor, and the castle grounds to be cleared of undergrowth. Since then some buildings, including two of the towers, have been rebuilt, including adding wooden roofs to the towers and some buildings.
Historical documents and 19th century paintings showing the castle as a romantic ruin were used to guide reconstruction efforts. The 18th century pavilion has been fully restored with roof, floors, a staircase, windows and electricity, allowing it to be used for exhibitions and cultural events. It is open year round to the public.
The Legend of the Fairy~
The Fairy tower (French: La tour de la fée) was constructed at the end of the 15th century, and is supported by strong buttresses. The base is octagonal, and is finished by a rectangular room: the roof has two panels. The top is decoreted by balusters and gargoyles.
Long ago, the Lord of Gratot, returning from hunting, was attracted to the fountain by the beautiful voice of a young woman, it was the fairy Gratot.
Seduced, he married her.
But their union was possible on one condition. It was necessary that he never pronounce the word DEATH! A beautiful day ... If you want to know the thrilling sequel to the legend, you must go and discover the Castle of Gratot!
Where's it at?
