Deceptive

This abandoned chateau may look romantic, but it has a grim history. It was occupied by the Gestapo during the war, and in August 1944, on the point of fleeing, they blew up the munitions dump they had there. But before they did that, they brought a number of members of the Resistance from Carcassonne prison, and shot them in a clearing in the woods. There were at least nine victims; it's difficult to say exactly how many because, chillingly, "body parts were scattered over 300 metres" following the explosion. They did include leading member of the resistance Jean Bringer (see second extra), whose name was given to the street in Carcassonne where the Préfecture stands.

Now, the clearing where they were shot is a beautiful, peaceful place, adrift with daisies, buttercups, honesty, and a sprinkling of  violets, birds twittering in the beech and bay trees. Every August it's spruced up and mown for an official ceremony of commemoration.

Meanwhile the large chateau and its outbuildings are crumbling and defaced. They were used as an agricultural college until about 2004, but now have been squatted, vandalised, graffitied (first extra -- this must have been a handsome stable block with clock once), and used as a location for quad biking. We were technically trespassing ... the entrances have been blocked with fallen trees to stop vehicles getting in, but it's easy enough to bypass them on foot and I can't feel we did anything wrong in pausing quietly in front of the memorials to remember those who gave their lives fighting Nazism.

Apart from this sombre moment, it was a pleasant walk, taking in a lake, woods, and open countryside with fine views. Because of the threatening clouds I lugged fleece and anorak all round the circuit and didn't need either of them -- the weather was perfect for walking. 9.5 km, 85 m climbing, 3 hours (due to time spent contemplating the memorials). I was satisfyingly tired when I got home.

I haven't participated in DerelictSunday for absolutely ages. Thanks Marlieske for hosting, and with a thought for SarumStroller who originated it.