Tour du Roy

Castle and Tower in Saint-Émilion

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Guiguilacagouille

The Tour du Roy or Château du Roi, also known as the King’s Keep, is a remarkable medieval tower in Saint-Émilion, France. It is the only intact Romanesque keep in the Gironde region, standing as a testament to the town’s rich history. The tower, built on a rocky massif, rises 32 meters from its lowest terrace to the top, offering a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. Its quadrangular structure, measuring 14.5 meters high and 9.5 meters wide, is reinforced with flat buttresses, a characteristic feature of medieval fortifications.

The origins of the Tour du Roy remain a mystery. Some historians believe it was commissioned by King Louis VIII of France in 1224, following his conquest of Aquitaine, while others attribute its construction to King Henry III of England in 1237, when Saint-Émilion returned to English control. A third theory suggests that the tower was built by the Jurade of Saint-Émilion, a governing body that sought to symbolize the town’s newfound autonomy. Regardless of its origins, the tower played a significant role in the Hundred Years’ War, with both French and English flags flying atop it at different times.

Today, the Tour du Roy continues to serve a ceremonial purpose. The Jurade of Saint-Émilion, now a prestigious wine brotherhood, uses the tower to proclaim the Judgment of New Wine in June and the Ban des Vendanges (Harvest Proclamation) in September. Visitors can climb the 118 steps to the panoramic rooftop, which offers breathtaking views of Saint-Émilion’s vineyards, medieval streets, and historic landmarks.

The tower is open to the public, with varying hours depending on the season. Entry costs €2 per person, and children under six years old can visit for free. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine lover, or simply seeking a stunning view, the Tour du Roy is a must-visit destination in Saint-Émilion.

The Tour du Roy appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Saint-Émilion!

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