Kastell Gisors

Alterations

Initial construction consisted of a simple motte-and-bailey keep, but was extended over the years with an octagonal stone keep replacing the wooden fortification. An outer palisade was converted to a fortified curtain wall, supported by the addition of defensive towers.
During a period of Neustrian control, a second keep, the Prisoner's Tower, was added to the outer wall and the outer moat was widened. At this time, the subterranean prison complex was constructed by Kriores labourers.

Defenses

An octagonal stone keep, surrounded by a circular curtain wall, dominates the flat top of an tall hill, a steep path winding around the slope to allow access to the upper levels. At the base of the hill, a second wall, supported by 8 defensive towers is surrounded by a deep dry moat.

History

Kastell Gisors was constructed Rollo I, First Dug of Normaundie and son of Hastings Fireforged, to defend against the Kingdom of Neustria. In a prior conflict, the two sovereignties had both laid claim to the County of Vexin, ultimately dividing it between Vexin and Vexin Gallia.
The castle was surrendered to Nuestrian forces during the reign of Dug Richarzh "Kalon Leon" IV as part of the ransom agreement for the Dug's release. The lostt of the fortress prompted the construction of the nearby Kastell Gaillard. Control of the castle was granted to the Urzh Kroashent under the command of Robert de Piron, a Knight of Aleth. The fortress was seized by treachery during the Black Crown Affair and used as a prison for Order members, including the Grandmaster, who was held there until his execution in Per-Ys and Kathalia Bisclavret.
The castle returned to Norman hands as part of a dowry.

Type

Castle

Owning Organization

County of Vexin