Petit-Anvin Castle

Petit-Anvin Castle, locally known as Château du Petit-Anvin, lies east of the village of Anvin, in the Pas-de-Calais department in France.

Petit-Anvin Castle was first mentioned in 1569, when it was owned by the Lannoy family. Nothing is known of its prior history but its appearance doesn't suggest it was built before the 15th century. Archaeological evidence showed that the castle had 3 round towers, 2 of which flanked a drawbridge. The 3rd, and largest, tower stood opposite the drawbridge.

It is said that the castle served as a refuge during enemy incursions in the area in the 16th century.

Petit-Anvin Castle was saved from substantial damage during military operations in the direct area in 1638 and 1640.

In 1857 the castle was bought by a Joseph Platiau de Longuenesse. He largely demolished it. Afterwards the abandoned remains were used as a quarry for cheap building materials by the locals.

At present the remains of Petit-Anvin Castle are situated on private farmland but it can easily be seen from the public road.

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