"Medeival France just a train ride from... " a Montfort-l'Amaury Travel Page by fossettes

I'll start by appologizing that I didn't take my camera when we went here. I will be going back soon, so will add pictures then.

Montfort-l'Amaury is a charming medeival town that grew from a hilltop fortification. In 996 the fortifaction was built to protect the Roman road that ran below the hill, connecting Beauvais and Chartres. The village became a fortress with a castle and ramparts. The town was detroyed by the English in the 14th century, leaving only a few wall fragments in tact.

In the 15th century, a Rennaissance château was built on the hilltop. All that remains is a brick and stone tower, with impressive Rennaissance carvings.

Montfort - l'Amaury is quite small and easily walked on foot, although to reach the castle ruins, it's an uphill walk.

When you arrive into town, the first thing you see is an imposing church, Eglise de St: Pierre et St: Paul. It dominates the town center, la Place de la Liberation which has several cafes with outdoor seating. From the curch, you can choose to wander the narrow winding streets with half timbered houses, stroll to the beautiful cloister-like cemetary. or climb the hill to the castle ruins.

Montfort-l'Amaury's most famous resident was Maurice Ravel, who lived here from 1921 until his death in 1937. His home is now a museum. It was here that he composed "Bolero" in 1928.

We went here for dinner one summer evening. The moon was full and after dinner we climbed to the hilltop. There is a lit path and the ruins are floodlit. From the hilltp, there are views of the valley below, including the floodlit church in town.