Royal Fortress of Chinon

The Warrior and Her King.

Overlooking the city, the fortress built by Count Thibaut I of Blois evokes the era when the histories of France and England were closely intertwined: the court of Henry II Plantagenet and Eleanor of Aquitaine established itself there in the 12th century. Philip Augustus, victor over John Lackland, occupied the site in 1205 and had a keep built. In 1429, in the great hall of the residence, the historic meeting between Joan of Arc and the Dauphin, the future King Charles VII, took place.

Visitors pass through the Clock Tower, where the Joan of Arc Museum illustrates her epic story. They then enter the residences, comprised of four rooms housing Flemish tapestries and furniture depicting daily life in the medieval period. Discovering a fortified castle—exploring its towers and ruins, the ramparts, the bridge over dry moats, and the watchtower—allows young visitors to imagine themselves in the time of knights. An exciting visit for all ages, enhanced by a video recounting the history of the royal fortress.