This photo was rewarded in 2024 in several international photography contests:
- European Photography Awards (EPA) with an honorable mention in the Professional section, Landcapes category.
- Chromatic Awards with an honorable mention in the Professional section, Nature category.
- Prix de la Photographie Paris (PX3) with an honorable mention in the Professional section, Nature/Sunrise/Sunset category.
As the sun sets over Roc la Tour in the Ardennes, France, it casts a mesmerizing sun star effect through the ancient rocks, reminiscent of a tale as old as time. Legend has it that this rugged landscape was once the site of a grand castle, built in a single night through a pact with the devil.
According to local folklore, a cash-strapped lord, desperate to impress his beloved and provide her with a home worthy of her splendor, made a Faustian bargain. He sold his soul to the devil in exchange for the construction of a magnificent castle. With his army of sorcerers, gnomes, and other fantastical creatures, Satan set to work, ready to fulfill his end of the bargain.
The castle was near completion when a vigilant rooster, awakened by the commotion, crowed prematurely, signaling the arrival of dawn. Believing he had lost his wager, the devil flew into a rage and demolished his creation. The castle’s walls tumbled down to the Semoy River below, leaving behind only these remnants.
