Locations

The Noës farm ("wetlands" in Old Norman) is an ancient motte fortification. A motte castrale, often called a "feudal motte", is a particular type of earthen fortification that was widely used in the early Middle Ages. It consists of a large, circular earth mound, the terte.

In most cases, the mound was surrounded by a ditch, with a strong palisade at the top. A wooden fort was built on the mound with a watchtower similar to a keep. The motte can be considered a primitive castle.

In Western Europe in the 10th century, the Carolingian army was too heavy to respond to the rapid Viking and Saracen raids. The defence was therefore organised locally around mottes, which were quick to build and used inexpensive materials available everywhere.

Today, the ditches surrounding the farm can still be seen, where the owners grow cereals, oilseeds and flax. The Noës farm is best known for its cider and duck foie gras production.