La Forteresse de Montbazon

Castle in Tours (Loire)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Daniel Jolivet

The Fortress of Montbazon dates back to the late 10th century, when Fulk Nerra, Count of Anjou, erected it to control passage along the Indre River and protect Tours from Norman raids. Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the valley, it exemplified the military effectiveness of a motte-and-bailey transformed into a stone stronghold. Its strategic position, halfway between Angers and Tours, made it an indispensable gatekeeper on the Loire routes.

Over the centuries, the fortress was expanded and modernized, notably in the 12th and 15th centuries. Broad granite curtain walls, reinforced by semicircular towers, framed a massive keep that still dominates the site today. The rock-cut ditches and polygonal ramparts bear witness to evolving medieval defensive techniques, while scattered interior traces hint at the locations of the lordly lodgings and guard chambers.

From the 17th century onward, its military role waned as artillery improved and siege warfare grew more mobile. The fortress was abandoned, partially dismantled, and even used as a stone quarry, causing large sections of its walls to collapse. It wasn’t until the 19th century—driven by local history enthusiasts—that the first preservation efforts began, followed by further stabilization work in the 20th century to secure the remaining structures and open the site to visitors.

Today, Montbazon is a place of both leisure and discovery. A small museum housed in the old powder magazine recounts its history, and guided tours lead you from the original entrance gate up to the summit of the keep, offering exceptional views over the Touraine countryside. Each summer the fortress hosts medieval-themed events, falconry demonstrations, and live-action role-playing games. Just a ten-minute drive from Tours, it makes an ideal stop for anyone eager to step back into the Middle Ages while enjoying the scenic trails along the Indre.

The La Forteresse de Montbazon appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Tours (Loire)!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!