Ozark Medieval Fortress is a project designed to construct an accurate example of a 13th-century French castle in Lead Hill, Arkansas.[1] Construction is carried out on the site by only using materials and techniques appropriate to the 13th century.[2] The ground was broken in 2009, with the expectation that completion will take about 20 years.
The project was inspired by Guédelon Castle in France, which is the first attempt to build a medieval castle using accurate construction methods, started by Michel Guyot. Two French citizens living in Arkansas offered to sell Guyot part of their land for the building of a similar fortification. Guyot accepted, and construction began in June 2009.[3]
In May 2010, Ozark Medieval Fortress opened to the public. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the ongoing construction and talk to the costumed workers. Additionally, starting in 2011 a collection of medieval siege weapons will be on display. The site is open every day from 10AM to 6PM.[4]
Guédelon Castle - the original project to build a medieval French castle