LOCHES AND ITS DUNGEON
VISIT TO
THE LOCHES DUNGEON
Standing in the heart of the Royal City, the Loches keep has overlooked the Indre Valley for nearly a thousand years. Built in the 11th century by Foulques Nerra, this imposing fortress still bears witness to the power of the Counts of Anjou.
Indeed, having served in turn as a stronghold and then a royal prison, the keep reveals a turbulent history. Towers, dungeons, and graffiti left by prisoners tell the stories of those who passed through its walls.
Finally, this guided tour of the Loches keep invites you to step back in time, following in the footsteps of knights, lords, and prisoners. Visiting the Loches keep means stepping into the heart of the Middle Ages and discovering the secrets of one of the best-preserved fortresses in the Loire Valley.
WHY VISIT?
LOCHES, A FORTRESS AT THE HEART OF HISTORY
Step back in time and explore nearly a thousand years of history, from Foulques Nerra’s fortress to the dungeon’s dark cells.
THE FOULQUES NERRA KEEP
Built in the 11th century, the keep at Loches stands as a testament to the power of the Count of Anjou. Discover this remarkable masterpiece of medieval military architecture.
FROM FORTRESS TO PRISON
Originally built to defend the city, the keep later became a formidable prison. Explore its towers and dungeons, which bear witness to several centuries of history.
THE SECRETS OF THE PRISONERS
Graffiti, inscriptions, and prison cells still tell the story of the daily lives of the prisoners held at Loches. Decipher the traces they left behind.
INCLUDED IN THE TOUR
- A guided tour deep into the heart of Foulques Nerra’s fortress
- The story of the keep, from its construction to its conversion into a prison
- Anecdotes about the lords and prisoners who left their mark on the site
- Explore the dungeons, graffiti, and secrets carved into the stone
- A friendly chat with your tour guide, who is passionate about history
TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
- Round out your visit with a tour of the Logis Royal, located in the heart of the Royal City of Loches
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for navigating the stairs and walking on the historic floors
- Remember to bring water, especially on hot days
- Arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins
- For private groups, tour times can be adjusted upon request
BOOK MY TOUR
Certified Tour Guide
Welcome to Visiter l’Histoire. I offer guided tours in the heart of the Loire Valley, where you can discover its iconic castles, its towns steeped in history, and its exceptional heritage,
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