Ghosts in the Castle

For years, tales of disturbing phenomena have circulated in the ruins of the medieval castle of Champtoce-sur-Loire in France. Residents of nearby villages report hearing children cry at night and the mysterious clatter of an invisible horse. The history of this place is linked to Gilles de Rais, a once-respected marshal who committed terrible crimes. However, his downfall and tragic fate, ending at the stake, brought no peace to him or his victims, who seem to still haunt the castle ruins.

At night, the cries of children can be heard in the ruins of the medieval French castle of Champtoce-sur-Loire. Residents of nearby villages swear they sometimes hear the clatter of an invisible horse.

In the 15th century, the castle belonged to Gilles de Rais, a wealthy nobleman. He was handsome, musically gifted, and had a magnificent voice. He fought alongside Joan of Arc against the English occupying France. In recognition of his services, the king appointed him marshal.

An exemplary nobleman

De Rais settled on his estate with his wife and adored daughter. He was considered a devout Christian. The chapel in his castle was considered the most beautiful in France.

It was said to be even more beautiful than the famous Notre Dame in Paris. It hosted scholars, artists, and philosophers from around the world. The Château de Raisa was open to the poorest beggar.

The road to hell

He needed money. When the treasure chest hit rock bottom, de Rais resorted to alchemy. He tried to produce gold. When he failed, he asked Satan for help.

Children began disappearing from de Rais's castle. The terrified residents had no doubt that it was their master's fault. The Inquisition stepped in.

On September 13, 1440, the Bishop of Nantes accused the marshal of "inhumanly killing many innocent children. He committed the unnatural sin of sodomy with them. He invoked demons, offered them sacrifices, and made pacts with them."

The remains of nearly 200 children, mostly boys, were found in the castle tower. The victims ranged in age from six to eighteen. Fearing torture, the accused pleaded guilty. His testimony was so shocking that one of the judges ordered the painting of Christ hanging in the chamber to be covered during the trial.

Christian funeral

De Rais was sentenced to death at the stake. Because he pleaded guilty, the sentence was commuted. On the way to the gallows, the marshal expressed remorse. He asked for forgiveness and prayers for his soul from "all whose children he had murdered." His request was answered. The victims' parents, judges, and spectators prayed loudly for him, and many even mourned him. He was hanged, and his body was thrown on the pyre, but it was quickly pulled from the fire and given a Christian burial.

The residents of Champtoce, however, claim that neither the criminal nor his victims found peace after their death. It's no wonder, then, that at night children can be heard crying in the castle, and a ghostly rider gallops nearby...