Palacio del Tau

Palace in Angers

CC BY-SA 2.0 / xorge

Nestled beside the magnificent Saint-Maurice Cathedral, the Palais du Tau is one of Angers' most fascinating — and often overlooked — historic landmarks. Originally built in the 12th century, this former episcopal palace combines over a thousand years of architectural evolution, from traces of Gallo-Roman walls to Gothic chapels and Renaissance staircases. Its name, derived from its distinctive T-shaped layout, links it to the famous Palais du Tau in Reims, making it a unique architectural treasure in western France.

For travelers who love history and hidden corners, the Palais du Tau is one of the must-see places in Angers. It offers an intimate glimpse into the city's ecclesiastical past, with tranquil courtyards, richly detailed halls, and centuries-old craftsmanship just steps away from the bustling cathedral square.

History and Significance of the Palais du Tau
Things to See and Do in the Palais du Tau
Practical Information
How to Get There
Is the Palais du Tau Worth Visiting?
Other Sites Nearby

History and Significance of the Palais du Tau

The story of the Palais du Tau begins in the early Middle Ages, when it served as the residence of the bishops of Angers. Built primarily in the 12th century, it incorporated remnants of a 3rd-century Gallo-Roman fortification, making it a living chronicle of the city's layered history. Its distinctive T-shaped plan — rare in France — inspired its name, “Tau,” from the Greek letter resembling the shape of the building.

Over the centuries, successive bishops expanded and renovated the palace. In the 15th century, Bishop Hardouin de Bueil added the grand synodal hall, now functioning as a library, while in the early 16th century, Bishop François de Rohan began construction on the palace's famous staircase. Although left unfinished until the 19th century, it remains one of the palace's most striking features. Later, during the 17th and 19th centuries, architect Charles Joly-Leterme led extensive restoration work that preserved its original character while modernizing its structure.

Today, the Palais du Tau serves as the diocesan house of works, continuing its legacy as a center of religious and cultural activity. Its architecture — a blend of stone, brick, schist, and tuffeau — reflects the rich diversity of the Loire Valley's materials and craftsmanship, making it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Angers for those intrigued by medieval design and local heritage.

Things to See and Do in the Palais du Tau

Visitors to the Palais du Tau can explore a series of beautifully preserved rooms that reveal the building's long and varied history. Highlights include the synodal hall, where church assemblies once met; the bishop's private chapel, a gem of medieval piety; and the unique circular kitchen — a rare feature in French ecclesiastical architecture.

The palace's oldest sections reveal the foundations of a Gallo-Roman wall, while later additions showcase Renaissance details like sculpted fireplaces and ornate window frames. The blend of eras creates a fascinating sense of continuity — each corner tells a story of adaptation and endurance. While the building is primarily used for diocesan purposes, special open days and guided tours allow the public to experience its hidden beauty. This spot is one of the best places to see in Angers for anyone captivated by history and architecture away from the usual tourist path.

Practical Information

Best time to visit Palais du Tau: Spring and summer, when guided visits are most frequent
Entrance fee in Euros: Usually free during public openings or events
Opening hours: Variable; check with the Angers Tourist Office or the diocesan schedule
Official website: www.diocese49.org
How long to spend: 30–60 minutes
Accessibility: Partial access; some stairways and uneven floors
Facilities: Restrooms nearby at the cathedral square
Photography tip: Capture the palace from the cathedral courtyard for the best contrast of medieval stonework and Gothic spires
Guided tours: Occasionally offered during European Heritage Days and special exhibitions
Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants along Rue Saint-Aubin and Place Sainte-Croix

How to Get There

The Palais du Tau is located directly next to the Cathédrale Saint-Maurice, at the heart of Angers' historic district. From the Angers-Saint-Laud train station, it's a 15-minute walk via Rue Saint-Laud and Rue de la Roe. The site is easy to reach on foot and is often visited on walking tours of Angers that include the cathedral and nearby monuments.

Is the Palais du Tau Worth Visiting?

Definitely. The Palais du Tau is one of the top sights in Angers for travelers who appreciate the quieter side of history. While less famous than the city's cathedral or castle, it offers a rare glimpse into the ecclesiastical power and artistry that once defined medieval Angers. Its layered architecture and peaceful ambiance make it an essential stop for those exploring the city's heritage in depth.

Other Sites Nearby

Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d'Angers – The city's architectural crown jewel with stunning stained glass and panoramic views.
Château d'Angers – A mighty fortress and home to the legendary Apocalypse Tapestry.
Maison d'Adam – A beautifully carved 15th-century half-timbered house showcasing medieval craftsmanship.
Collégiale Saint-Martin – One of the best-preserved Carolingian churches in France, now a cultural venue.
Musée des Beaux-Arts – Exhibiting fine art and local history within the elegant Logis Barrault.

Quietly majestic and steeped in history, the Palais du Tau is more than a relic — it's a living reminder of Angers' spiritual and cultural depth. For those seeking authenticity and atmosphere, it remains one of the things to do in Angers that truly connects the modern city to its medieval soul.

The Palacio del Tau appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Angers!

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