CHÂTEAU DE DURTAL

Come and discover the imposing Château de Durtal, a historic monument open to visitors: its former kitchens, fresco gallery, parapet walk, "engoulents" room, 15th-century framework and one of the largest fireplaces in France! The entrance is at the top left of the Place des Terrasses, not on the church side, but above the gate on rue de la Primaudière, where there is a large gate with a black grille. Both a fortress and a château d'apparat, Durtal is a perfect architectural example of the monumental buildings of the Loire Valley in the 15th and 16th centuries. Built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town and the river Loir, the immense 5,000 m2 building and its 90 rooms can only be discovered on guided tours. A strategic lock on the Loir Valley, this formidable fortress protected Anjou. Overlooking the river Loir, the 11th-century construction, initiated by Foulque Nerra and Geoffroy de Martel, grew to become, in the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries, a sumptuous château where the kings of France liked to stay, close to the Chambiers forest, an ideal hunting ground. A remarkable example of the transition from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, and a true lesson in architecture, the proud château of the Counts of Anjou still protects the town of Durtal. History has it that it was here that the St. Bartholomew?s Day massacre was instigated? This is an opportunity to take a closer look at the history of this château, listed as a Historic Monument since 1901 and subsequently donated to the town of Durtal after being pillaged during the French Revolution. A wartime hospice until the end of 1945, it then became a retirement home until 1996, when it was bought by private individuals. Since 2007, it has belonged to the Suguenot family. Come and discover the secrets of this Royal Château! In the basement, you'll discover the second largest fireplace in France, the various kitchens and how they work? Then it's the turn of the 40-meter-long ceremonial gallery, where receptions were held. Or ?the devil?s room?, the ?chemin de ronde?, the ?logis seigneurial?? so many rooms that impress as much as they charm. Private castle and guided tour only (duration 1h). Please phone before coming. *Many stairs in the château, no elevator. Open from Easter to All Saints' Day, every weekend and public holiday in April, May, June, September and October. July-August: Open Wednesday to Monday. Closed on Tuesdays. Guided tours at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm. Please wait for the tour to start at the reception desk by the gate. Guided tours for groups by appointment all year round.