"Lerse was a small 13th century fortified chateau. The drawing opposite (photo1), which dates back to 1761, gives an idea of the overall architecture, with a square structure surrounding a courtyard where the occupants could take refuge when under attack. The door leading to the courtyard was defended by machicolations and arrow slits (photo2). Above the door, the symbol of  Saint Jacques de Compostelles (a scallop shell) let pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela know that they were welcome.
Centuries on, Lerse has preserved this notion of hospitality, with its table d'hôte and three bedrooms, and a level of quality and comfort that takes nothing away from the chateau's history
."

photo 1

photo 2