La Roche Castle

France. The construction of La Roche began by order of Cyr de Thierry, landlord of Montpassier about 1000 years ago - in the XI century and ended by the end of the XII century. During the Hundred Years War, both French and British mercenaries were active here. In 1359, the British, led by Robert Knoll, took the fortress and held it until 1375, devastating the surrounding lands. King Charles V ordered the Duke of Bourbon to clear these lands of enemies. The Duke (Louis II) began the campaign with the siege of La Roche. The fortress was taken in one night. All the English laid down their arms. The castle returned to its owner, Cyr de Montpassier. At that time, they were Duke John of Berry (1340-1416), the king's brother and art lover. He commissioned beautiful paintings, which are still kept in the Chantilly Museum. Since that time, La Roche lost its strategic importance and ceased to be a military fortress.