This project is part of the framework of the European Year of the Normans 2027. On this occasion, the Normandy Region launched a call for multidisciplinary and transnational projects, enabling everyone to propose initiatives with the aim of obtaining official certification. The project presented here seeks to highlight the rich historical past of the Commune Nouvelle des Trois Lacs by showcasing a major historical entity:

• The Lordship of Venables, where Gilbert de Venables lived.

This emblematic figure of the village of Venables left a lasting mark on the history of Normandy and extended his influence far beyond its borders, particularly in England.

Project: To promote the history of the motte-and-bailey castle of Venables and one of its emblematic lords: Gilbert de Venables. Located at the extreme northern edge of the Pagus Madriacensis (present-day Madrie plateau), the Lordship of Venables was, from the earliest stages of Normandy’s formation, the scene of rivalries between the Frankish counts and the Norman counts. These conflicts formed part of a broader context: the emergence of feudalism during the early construction of Normandy.

After his time on the fief of Venables, in 1066, Gilbert de Venables followed Duke William of Normandy during the conquest of England. In accordance with the Duke’s promises, Gilbert was established in Cheshire, near Middlewich. He became the founder of the great Venables lineage, whose influence has since extended far beyond Normandy and today reaches across the world.

Objective: This project is based on a 3D virtual reconstruction of the motte-and-bailey castle of Venables in the 11th century, accompanied by an interactive digital heritage trail via the LEGENDR application. It thus contributes to enhancing the historical and tourist value of the site and bringing it to wider public attention.