Granzay-Gript

Granzay, first mentioned in 1218, was largely planted with vines before the advent of phylloxera. Its seigneury came under the Frontenay castellany. Mentioned in the censif de Chizé in 1250, in 1716 Gript was a market town with 4 or 5 rustic inns catering for travellers passing through on the main road. The two communes merged in 1972. 10 years later, a sundial was built, the only example of a gnomonic achievement undertaken on such a large scale for the contemporary period (170 tonnes, 17.30 m wide at ground level and 5.25 m high). Its location means that the shadow cast can be read directly. Thanks to its imposing size, a simple sighting along the needles helps to locate the North Star.

Also worth seeing: St-Vaize church, St-Aubin church, Griffier castle, bread oven and discovery trails.