Château de Brissac, the tallest castle in France, stands as a testament to centuries of history and intrigue. Its imposing walls have witnessed both grandeur and tragedy, but it’s the spectral presence of the Green Lady that continues to captivate visitors.
Originally constructed in the 11th century by the Counts of Anjou, the castle underwent a significant transformation in 1502 when Charles II, Duke of Brissac, rebuilt it and bestowed upon it the name we know today. Nestled in the picturesque Loire Valley, this noble fortress exudes an old-world charm that belies its darker secrets.
In the 15th century, a chilling event unfolded within the castle’s stone walls—a double murder that would forever haunt its halls. The victims were none other than the ill-fated lovers: Charlotte de Brézé, the wife of the castle’s owner, and her secret paramour, King Charles VII. Their clandestine affair had ignited jealousy and rage, leading to a violent end.
The spirit of Charlotte de Brézé, known as the Green Lady, now roams the castle. Her ethereal presence has become part of the fabric of Château de Brissac, accepted by its current residents—the Duke of Brissac and his family—as a spectral housemate. However, for unsuspecting guests, encountering her can be a bone-chilling experience.
The Green Lady is most frequently sighted in the tower room of the chapel. Clad in her green gown, she moves silently through the centuries-old stone corridors. But it’s her face that truly unnerves those who glimpse her. Empty sockets replace where her eyes should be, and her nose is a gaping void—a visage resembling a decaying corpse. Her gaze pierces through time, leaving witnesses trembling in fear.
Beyond her appearances, the Green Lady makes her presence known through eerie moans that echo throughout the castle during the early hours. These mournful sounds evoke the tragedy that unfolded centuries ago—a love affair turned deadly, leaving behind restless souls seeking solace or perhaps revenge.
Unless her restless spirit finds peace or justice, Charlotte de Brézé’s wails will continue to reverberate within the Château de Brissac.
