Château d'Angers
Pays de la Loire
Château d'Angers is a grand medieval castle located in the city of Angers in the Loire Valley, France. Founded originally in the 9th century by the Counts of Anjou, the current imposing fortress was largely constructed in the 13th century under King Louis IX. The castle overlooks the River Maine from a strategic hilltop position, offering commanding views and a commanding presence. It is renowned for housing the Apocalypse Tapestry, the oldest and largest collection of medieval tapestries in the world, commissioned in the 14th century by Louis I, Duke of Anjou. The castle's architecture features 17 massive semicircular towers built of whitestone and black slate, with fortifications that have never been breached in history. Over centuries, it served various roles including a military fortress, royal residence, prison, and military academy where notable figures like the Duke of Wellington trained. Despite damage from wars and a significant fire in 2009, the castle remains a cultural monument and museum managed by the City of Angers. Visitors can explore its extensive ramparts, the Sainte-Chapelle chapel containing a relic of the True Cross, and exhibitions showcasing medieval art and history.
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Tip: Visit during spring and early summer for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially for special exhibitions. Admission is free for visitors under 26 years old. Check the official website for opening hours and any scheduled events or festivals such as the Festival de l'Apocalypse. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the history and artworks, including the Apocalypse Tapestry.
Interesting facts
- •The Apocalypse Tapestry housed in the castle is the oldest and largest medieval tapestry collection in the world.
- •The castle's fortifications withstood a massive bombardment by the Vendean army in the late 18th century, never being captured by invading forces.
- •Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, known for defeating Napoleon at Waterloo, trained at the castle's military academy.
- •The castle features 17 massive semicircular towers made from whitestone and black slate, a distinctive architectural feature.
- •The Sainte-Chapelle chapel inside the castle contains a relic believed to be a fragment of the True Cross.
History
The site of Château d'Angers has been occupied since antiquity due to its strategic location overlooking the River Maine.
The first castle was built in the 9th century by the Counts of Anjou to defend against Norman invasions.
In the 13th century, King Louis IX rebuilt the castle into the formidable fortress seen today, with 17 towers and strong walls.
The castle became part of the Angevin Empire and later the French crown.
In the 14th century, it was transformed into a ducal residence and housed the famous Apocalypse Tapestry commissioned by Louis I.
Throughout the Renaissance and into modern times, the castle served as a military garrison, prison, and powder magazine.
It survived significant damage during World War II and a major fire in 2009 but has been restored and preserved as a historic monument and museum.
Place Guide
Ramparts and Towers13th century
Explore the castle's 17 semicircular towers and extensive ramparts offering panoramic views of Angers and the River Maine. The fortifications exemplify medieval military architecture and the castle's defensive strength.
Apocalypse Tapestry Gallery1373
Home to the priceless 14th-century Apocalypse Tapestry, this gallery showcases one of the most significant medieval textile artworks depicting the biblical apocalypse.
Sainte-Chapelle Chapel1405-1412
A royal chapel built between 1405 and 1412, containing a relic of the True Cross. It is a fine example of Gothic religious architecture within the fortress complex.
Contact
Phone: 02 41 86 48 77
