THE ROYAL FORTRESS OF CHINON

VISIT TO

THE ROYAL FORTRESS OF CHINON

Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Vienne River, the Royal Fortress of Chinon has weathered nearly a thousand years of history. Its ramparts and towers still bear witness to the power of the lords who vied for control of this strategic site.

Indeed, shaped by the Plantagenets and the kings of France, the fortress was the scene of rivalries, sieges, and major political upheavals between the two kingdoms.

Set out to explore this medieval fortress, a witness to the clashes between France and England and to the meeting between Joan of Arc and the future King Charles VII. This guided tour of the Royal Fortress of Chinon invites you to relive the glory days of the Middle Ages in the heart of the Loire Valley.

WHY VISIT ?

CHINON, AT THE HEART OF THE MIDDLE AGES' GREAT MOMENTS

Travel back in time and explore nearly a thousand years of history, from the powerful Plantagenets

to the decisive encounter between Joan of Arc and Charles VII.

Vue aérienne de la Forteresse royale de Chinon dominant la ville et la Vienne
© Lezbroz – Teddy Verneuil

THE PLANTAGENETS​

Chinon, the last refuge of King Henry II of England, was one of the major fortresses of the Plantagenet Empire. Follow in the footsteps of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine.

JOAN OF ARC IN CHINON

In 1429, Joan of Arc met Charles VII in Chinon and encouraged him to reclaim his kingdom. Relive a decisive moment in the Hundred Years’ War and in French history.

Vue aérienne de la Forteresse royale de Chinon dominant la ville et la Vienne
© Gillard et Vincent / CRT Centre-Val de Loire

3 CASTLES, ONE STORY

Fort du Coudray, Château du Milieu, and Fort Saint-Georges make up this monumental complex. Explore its towers and ramparts to uncover the fortress’s secrets.

MEETING PLACE

4 Rue du Château, 37500 Chinon

DURATION OF THE VISIT

1:00 to 2:00

GROUP FOR THE TOUR

2 to 30 people

  • A guided tour through the heart of the Royal Fortress of Chinon
  • The story of the Plantagenets and the rivalries between France and England
  • The historic meeting between Joan of Arc and Charles VII
  • A tour of the three castles, their towers, and their ramparts
  • A special opportunity to interact with your tour guide, who is passionate about history
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the town of Chinon, the Vienne River, and the vineyards from the ramparts.
  • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for your tour of the fortress.
  • Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins.
  • Feel free to ask questions—I’ll be happy to answer them all!
  • For private groups, tour times can be adjusted upon request.

JE RÉSERVE MA VISITE

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    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,

    Art Direction & Website Design : Yapluka’

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    VISITERL’HISTOIRE@GMAIL.COM

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