Château de Dinan

Castle in Dinan & Léhon

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The Château de Dinan is a notable historical landmark located in the town of Dinan, within the Brittany region’s Côtes-d’Armor département in France. This majestic castle, comprising a keep, is an integral part of Dinan’s rich medieval heritage, prominently positioned among the town’s ancient ramparts that extend over 2,600 meters (approximately 8,500 feet) and encircle the old town.

Known as the Donjon de la Duchesse Anne (Keep of Duchess Anne), the keep stands tall at 111 feet (34 meters) near the Saint Louis gate. It was constructed in 1382-1383 by John V, Duke of Brittany. The architecture of the keep features a unique design, merging two tall circular towers. This structure is strategically separated from both the exterior and interior of the city by a moat and drawbridge, serving as a formidable defense against invaders as well as a means of control over the local populace. The keep boasts extensive machicolations that overhang the wall head, providing vital defensive coverage of the tower’s base. Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, the castle was listed as a monument historique in 1886. Today, it is owned by the municipality and accommodates the local museum, inviting visitors to explore its storied past.

The Château de Dinan’s historical significance is underscored by its nearly millennium-old legacy, marking it as one of the earliest castles, notably featured in the Bayeux Tapestry. This inclusion highlights the castle’s prominence in medieval European history and its enduring legacy as a symbol of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The Château de Dinan appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dinan & Léhon!

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