Château de Chinon
Castle in Tours
Perched atop a rocky promontory overlooking the Vienne River in France’s Loire Valley, the Château de Chinon is a historic fortress with a rich and complex past. Its strategic location made it a coveted stronghold throughout history, serving various rulers and playing a pivotal role in significant events.
The origins of the fortress date back to the 10th century when Theobald I, Count of Blois, constructed the initial structure. In the 12th century, it became a favored residence of Henry II Plantagenet, King of England, who expanded the castle to serve as a key administrative center for his Angevin empire. Notably, Henry II died within its walls in 1189.
In the 15th century, during the Hundred Years’ War, the château gained prominence as the site where Joan of Arc met the future Charles VII in 1429, inspiring him to reclaim his throne and leading to the liberation of Orléans. citeturn0search6 Over the centuries, the fortress underwent periods of neglect and restoration, and today, it stands as a testament to medieval architecture and French history, welcoming visitors to explore its storied past.
The Château de Chinon appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Tours!
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Visiting Château de Chinon
January-February-November-December: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
March-April and September-October: 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
May 1 -August 31: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
€12.50
Nearby Attractions
- Château d’Ussé (10.0) km
Castle in Tours - Château d’Azay-le-Rideau (20.1) km
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Gardens in Tours - Musee du Compagnonnage (42.4) km
Museum in Tours - Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours (42.8) km
Museum in Tours - Cathédrale Saint-Gatien (42.8) km
Cathedral in Tours
