BUTTES DE PERAY - "LE CASTRUM PIRETI"

A motte castrale to discover

During the 10th, 11th and 12th centuries, the Saosnois region was in turmoil, with numerous wars raging across the land. The lords of Bellême therefore decided to build defences to counter the attacks.
Mottes were built (Peray and St Rémy du Val). They served as a lookout post and defensive/offensive base and ensured a strategic position.

The large mound at Peray is one of the most important in the department and provided triple protection:
- wide moats filled with water
- ramparts around the lower courtyard
- a very high motte.

Today, the mounds offer a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. There is an orientation table at the summit. You can also see the Ouessant sheep that look after the grounds.