Medieval castles of France: photos, stories, legends

2024 Author: Harold Hamphrey | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

France is divided by the Loire River into southern and northern parts. Each of them has its own climate. This uniquely beautiful area is famous for its villages of great historical significance, pastoral landscapes, good wine, famous monuments and castles.

There are about 300 estates in the valley. You can see many castles in France on the map below. Among them there are real fortresses with defensive buildings and fortifications. For construction work, the best landscape designers and architects of those years were hired here.

At the moment, many palaces and castles in France continue to be private property, some are open to the general public, but there are also those that now have hotels.

Plessey-Burret Castle

This stunning castle is located in the commune of Ecuyers, on the coast of the Loire, near Angers. Plessis-Bourre is perfectly preserved, so many tourists can see it in the same form in which it was built 500 years ago. The castle is a combination of Renaissance luxury andmedieval trends.

When designing it, the task was to build a small, but real fortress with the necessary attributes for it. In addition, Plessy-Bourre had to be comfortable and convenient so that the owner could live there, invite many guests and hold various balls. The architect was able to realize all these requirements. The rectangular castle is located on the territory of 59 by 68 meters. Like other medieval castles in France, towers complete its corners. A moat was dug around the entire building, through which you can only cross over a small drawbridge - a bridge house was built to protect it. At the same time, space was left between the moat and the wall so that the owner of the castle had a place where one could take a walk.

Château de Chenonceau

While walking along the Loire Valley, one cannot fail to notice the castle of Chenonceau (France), which was built in 1515-1521. in the early Renaissance and late Gothic style and surrounded by unique gardens.

This chateau was owned at different times by Catherine de Medici and Francis I. All the owners of the castle were repeatedly rebuilt until it came into the possession of the Magnier family (1914), engaged in the production of chocolate. The reconstruction of the interiors was completed only in 1951. Due to this, the interior decoration of the halls and rooms remained practically unchanged. Today, Chenonceau Castle is the most visited estate in the country. In order not to be pushed around by curious people, it is better to come here early in the morning. I have an opportunityrent a portable audio guide - it will tell you the whole history of these places.

Mont Saint-Michel

On the borders of the provinces of Brittany and Normandy, at the mouth of the river. Kyusnon is a rocky little island. As the legend says, in 708 the Archangel Michael came to the Bishop of Avranches St. Aubert, after which he ordered him to build a church on this site. It was decided to create the church in the form of a castle. The remains of 2 chapels dating back to that time were found on the mountain.

At the moment, the Mont Saint-Michel castle is one of the most famous sights of the country. For better access of tourists to the abbey, a dam was built here - transport moves along it. However, environmental problems arose due to the construction, so they are going to demolish it, and build a bridge instead of a dam.

Château de Chambord

This is the most magnificent residence of the kings, which is located on the Loire. This castle can compete in scope even with Versailles. At the very beginning, Chambord Castle was conceived as an ordinary hunting lodge, testifying in some way to the power of the monarchs located here. Most likely, that is why Francis I, who was involved in the construction of this object, did not spare money for its construction.

This castle is a vivid example of an amazing synthesis of Italian Renaissance architecture and medieval forms. It contains a unique staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself. Vacationers who have visited this castle are also recommended to take a walk in its park - itis a nature reserve covering an area of 5540 hectares. By the way, you will hardly see such a landscape anywhere else.

Château Le Lud

Continuing to explore the castles of the Loire (France), photos of which are presented in this article, one cannot fail to note Le Lude. It was built in the X-XI centuries as a defensive structure. This fortress was built to protect against the raids of the Normans of the Angevin kingdom and the British. But the castle ended up in the hands of the enemy, and only in the 15th century returned to the crown of France. Marshal Gilles de Re, who drove the enemy out of there, received a fortress as a reward.

This castle is interesting due to the harmonious combination of different styles. Their diversity is noticeable in decoration, furniture and interiors. It is currently open to tourists.

Crussol Fortress

Crussol Fortress was built in the XII century to protect the valley of the river. Rhone. This fortification was guarding the borders of France from raids from Italy. At the time construction began, these lands belonged to Gerald Bastet, Lord.

The fortress was erected on a limestone peak and was an excellent observation and fortified point. It was a key point of the surrounding area. The natural steep slope was continued by fortification walls. The castle was almost impregnable.

The main building occupied 3 hectares. The first shaft of fortifications is not included here. It was created to protect a small village adjacent to the fortress. It consisted of no more than 100 houses.

Crussol Fortress in the 16th century, whenbegan internecine wars, found itself in the very center of hostilities. Local feudal lords, under the pretext of protecting religion, tried to seize large territories. The fortress was destroyed during the fighting, and is currently in ruins.

Chaumont-sur-Loire

Viewing the castles of the Loire, you can not ignore this one. On the rocky bank of the river, between the cities of Blois and Tours, this real pearl of palace architecture hid.

The history of this beautiful castle is directly related to the names of Diana de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici, Nostradamus, as well as various princes who turned it into an exquisite residence. Today, the famous International Garden Festival is held in this castle. Every year, at least 30 gardens are created on the castle grounds by local artists, landscape designers, and gardeners.

Angers Castle

In the historical part of the country, in the department of Maine and Loire, the castle of Angers is located. It takes its name from the city of the same name. During its formation, the castle has repeatedly been the cause of the political struggle between France and England. Its massive walls, created in the form of huge columns, withstood many siege actions. This castle was one of the main strategic objects of the country.

It began to be built in the ninth century in order to resist the raids of the Romans. In the thirteenth century it was equipped with a complex of fortifications. Then there was the strengthening and expansion of its defensive structures.

The castle was for some time the residence of René of Anjou,who organized jousting tournaments and literary festivals there. Due to constant wars in the sixteenth century, the castle fell into complete disrepair, and Henry III ordered its destruction. But the fortress was so powerful that the plan could not be fulfilled, and the work was completed. Soon, the solemn betrothal of Francoise of Lorraine and Caesar of Vendôme took place there.

The imagination of visitors is still amazed by the huge tapestry "Apocalypse". This piece is several hundred meters long.

Clos Lusset Castle

Continuing to explore the castles of France, photos of which can be seen in this article, it is worth highlighting Clos Luce. This pink and white stone building was built on foundations that scholars date back to the Halo-Roman era. The owner of the castle was the royal favorite Etienne Le Loup, who was the assistant cook at Plessis-les-Tours.

The medieval square tower has survived to this day. It was part of the general system of defensive structures. The fortress outlines of the castle were softened by elements of Renaissance architecture - their building acquired after the purchase of the castle by Charles VIII.

The building was turned into the residence of the king, it was decorated with exquisite stone carvings, and a chapel for Anne of Brittany was added. At one time, Francis I, Leonardo da Vinci, Margarita Navarskaya visited here, Babu de la Bourdesiere (the king's favorite) lived here.

The castle was not destroyed during the Revolution thanks to the efforts of the d'Amboise family. Then it passed into the ownership of the Saint-Brie family - it is in their possessionand now. Representatives of this house are trying to recreate the appearance of the castle and its ancient interiors.

In the sixteenth century, the famous Leonardo da Vinci lived here. At the present moment, architects, stone and wood craftsmen, art restorers are engaged in restoration. First, the Hall of the Guards will be renovated (it was the kitchen under Leonardo), then the basement floors will be updated, where the machines created by the genius of the artist will be located, as well as the Great Hall of the Council. In addition, you can see the rooms of Leonardo da Vinci and Margherita of Navarre.

Château de Amboise

While looking at the castles in the south of France, it is worth noting this one, which rises above the Loire. It began its history in the eleventh century. Therefore, it experienced many different periods - it was a royal residence and a powerful medieval fortress, a button factory and a prison … This castle was visited by many humanists, philosophers, artists and sculptors from all over Europe. It will be interesting for every tourist to walk along the cavalry towers and royal chambers, get acquainted with the stunning collection of furniture, enjoying the beautiful panoramic garden of the Loire coast.

Château d'If

The castle, known to many from the novel by A. Dumas, is located in the south of France. It was built to protect the city from attacks from the sea. It was ordered to be built by Francis I, although the castle was never attacked, due to which it has been able to survive to this day in absolute integrity.

Modern Marseille is rightfully proud of it - this is one of its mainattractions. So, there are guided tours around If Castle, there is a cozy cafe, and postcards and souvenirs are also sold.

For a long time this castle was used as a prison, because it was the best place for exile - it was almost impossible to escape from there due to strong currents off the coast of the island. In the fortress there were cells without windows, located in the back of the building, although there were other conditions for we althy people - they were located in the upper part of the building, where it was possible to enjoy the seascape and breathe fresh air.

Only at the end of the nineteenth century, the prison ceased to exist, and the castle became a landmark of the country.

Serran Castle

The Serran fortress was built in the sixteenth century, but like many castles in France, the ancient building was significantly rebuilt in later centuries. The property originally belonged to the Le Bris family - they asked for permission to build it from Louis XI. Designed by famous Philibert Delorme.

After the changes, the spirit of the Renaissance, characteristic of the period of Francis I, still remained here (almost all the castles of the Loire were built in it). The corner towers and moats are considered the oldest elements of the castle, which are harmoniously combined with the domes crowning the towers and wide windows. The towers at the top are decorated with balustrades.

White sandstone and dark brown slate create a beautiful contrast on the facade of the building, decorated with a triangular pediment.

In the castle, the interiors with a magnificent library andtapestries.

Castle of Carcassonne

This is a unique masterpiece of defensive and military architecture, which amazes with its grandeur and power. The castle of Carcassonne (France) consists of a two-row three-kilometer thick wall with towers, the sight of which makes anyone tremble.

A distinctive feature of the castle is that in this place there is a completely ordinary life - cars drive and locals live. Here you can feel like a resident of a medieval city - the entrance to the fortress is completely free and free!

The fortress of Carcassonne is located in the southeast on the right bank of the river. Od. Around it there is a double row of walls with a total length of about 3 kilometers, which are crowned with 52 towers. This fortress in Europe at one time was considered the most impregnable. On its territory there is a basilica and the count's castle of Comtal. The fortress has been included in the UNESCO list since 1997.

Clos Luce Castle

Of course, not all castles in France are associated with the name of the famous Leonardo da Vinci, but not this one. Leonardo, at the invitation of Francis the First, visited this region and lived here for the last 3 years of his life. He devoted this time to completing work on his canvases and inventions. Walking here will be pleasant and interesting for everyone. In this place, drawings and inventions of the master come to life, here every visitor can discover the true world of this genius.

Ge Pean Castle

Studying the numerous castles of France, it is worth mentioning this medieval building, built near Ponlevois in the XIV-15th century It is an elegant hunting pavilion square in plan. The fortress walls with towers end with a terrace. All of its residential buildings are located in the shape of the letter "P", forming a huge courtyard inside. The main building is decorated with round towers, and the facade has many elegant windows, due to which there is always a huge amount of light in the chambers.

Here there were such guests as Henry II, Francis I, Lafayette, Balzac. The inner chambers were decorated in the style of the Renaissance.

Currently, the owner is the Marquis de Keguelen. The castle is open to the public, with its most famous rooms being the salon, the Hall of the Guards, the library and the chapel. Many works of art have been used to decorate the interiors, this place houses furniture from Louis XV and XVI, stunning tapestries are displayed on the walls. The paintings decorating the castle are by famous artists, including Rigaud, Jean-Louis David, Fragonard, Guido Reni, Andrea del Sarto.

Legendary Versailles

Versailles, as one of the most famous castles in the country, annually attracts about 3 million visitors. This magnificent palace was built in 1624 for Louis XIII as a hunting lodge. It later expanded to become the residence of the entire royal family. The unique features of the palace include a corridor with 17 mirrored arches, a Hall of Mirrors and a huge number of other equally interesting details. Visitors to the Queen's bedroom can see a hidden door - Marie Antoinette made herthe escape. Versailles, with its stunning halls, is simply a must-see. And don't forget the palace's 250-acre gardens, showcasing a geometric idyll of paths, flowers and trees.

For all tourists, travelers and vacationers, stunning landscapes, French charm, majestic castles of France will open here … Today, all historical cultural monuments of the Middle Ages of the country are carefully protected, and many that were previously in a dilapidated state are now beginning to be restored.