Today, I'm taking Glenda, my French immersion student, on an excursion to Pierrefonds. In this charming little village of Oise, there is a huge medieval castle at the top of a hill which overlooks the village.
To get to Pierrefonds, we have to go through the Compiègne forest. It is one of the three largest forests in France. It’s a forest rich in history that deserves a special French post I will wright about it soon, so much has happened there!
As we cross it, Glenda sees a sign that says "hunting in progress".
- What does that sign mean? Is it still possible to hunt in France?
Yes indeed, hunting is still a very popular activity in France, and also very regulated! There are the supporters of the hunt and also a lot of opponents! In Oise, we mainly have wild boars, hinds, deer, foxes, rabbits and game birds. This sign, for example, indicates that a hunting party is taking place at the same moment and that you must be careful!
We arrive in Pierrefonds and each time, it is the same reaction:
- Wow, how beautiful is it! And how big is it!!!
It is true that it is magnificent and the fact that it is located on a hill makes it even more majestic! This medieval castle was rebuilt in the 19th century by Viollet-Le-Duc, at the request of Napoleon III who particularly liked this place, which is why it is particularly well preserved.
This fortress has had a very tumultuous history: it was built at the end of the 14th century and belonged to the Orleans family. Conquered several times, it falls into the hands of rich lords opposed to royal power. The strategic position of Pierrefonds between northern Europe and Paris allows the lords of this castle to enrich themselves by imposing transit taxes.
This is totally unacceptable for the King of France Louis XIII who besieges the castle! It is out of the question of having a powerful enemy at the gates of Paris and decides to have him demolished! This marvelous building will therefore remain in ruins until Napoleon III entrusts it to its architect Viollet-Le-Duc to restore it.
Arriving on the forecourt of the castle, Glenda says to me:
- It's unbelievable, you have the impression of being in the Middle Ages! There is even a catapult!!
Throughout the visit, she will enrich her medieval vocabulary! You can also get started with the vocabulary list in the appendix 😊
Pierrefonds is perfect for a nice outing. In addition to the castle, there is a lake and very good restaurants and of course the superb Compiègne forest which allows you to go for a short hike when you have the time!
If you come for French immersion at my place, I will take you there with great pleasure!!