Castle of Chinon - Chateau de Chinon

The Chateau of Chinon has, arguably, the longest history of any Loire Valley castle. Located at the top of a strategic headland, its existence dates back to the 5th century.

It was owned successively by the Counts of Tours and Blois, then by the Count of Anjou, and then it fell into the hands of Plantagenêt (English) who reinforced its defences considerably. In 1204, after a victorious century, Philippe Auguste seized it for the Crown.

In the middle of 15th century, Chinon had its most sumptuous period: it accommodated the court of King Charles VII and it was in this castle that he received Joan of Arc during the One Hundred year war.

After the departure of the royal court, the castle was never as glamorous, despite the further fortifications carried out by Philippe de Commynes, captain of the castle. From the 17th century onwards the castle fell into disrepair and almost fell into ruin.

It remains, however, a very beautiful place to visit: its construction being spread from the 11th century to the end of the 15th century provides a view the developments in architectural technologies in castle construction.

The visitor can thus go from the primitive castle of the 11th century, thick short walls, crowned broad crenels to the circular Tower of the Mill, built by Plantagenêt, like a watchtower dominating the Vienne River. They will also be able to study the fortifications built by Philippe Auguste, see the remains of the Palace of Charles VII and finally have a look at the Tower of Argenton which was the last touch of this immense architectural building measuring 500m long and 100m wide.

If you visit the Chateau of Chinon, take your time as cross the centuries.

Address: rue du chateau

Entry: 6 euros

Entry Concession: 4,50 euros

Opening hours: From 1 October until 31 March: 9h-17h30; From 1 April until 30 September: 9h-19h

Phone number: +33 2 47 93 13 45