The Featured Image of Château de Fougères

Château de Fougères: The Largest Fortress of Europe:

LocationFougères, Region of Brittany, France (Google Maps Location)
Open for VisitorsYes
Owned byThe municipality
Official WebsiteFabuleux Château de Fougères
Rooms AvailableNo

Château de Fougères, located in Fougères, France, is built on a rock emerging from a Swamp and is surrounded by a loop of the Nançon River. This Château will take you back to the time of the Dukes of Brittany. It is one of the most well-preserved and beautiful fortresses in Europe and offers brilliant views of the town and its ramparts. It is worth visiting if you want to explore the history of France closely.

Château de Fougères History

Château de Fougères
Château de Fougères, by Daniel Jolivet, is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Château de Fougères was built as a wooden fort by the House of Amboise in the 11th century. However, in 1166, it was destroyed and besieged by King Henry II of England. Within a year, the rebuilding work started in the Château by Raoul II Baron de Fougères. He used it to keep his donkeys. Today, you can see the successors of those donkeys grazing in the courtyard of the château. In the mid-15th century, the Château was taken by an English mercenary during the Hundred Years’ war. In 1488, the French troops won back this castle, but it lost its military role after this. Currently, the municipality owns Château de Fougères. It is counted as one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe.

Château de Fougères Interior

Château de Fougères includes 13 towers and ramparts connecting them. It has three layers of fortification and has exchanged hands several times between English and French, and every owner left their touch in the Château’s interiors. Its unique décor and furniture will take you back to its historic journey.

Château de Fougères Inside
Château de Fougères Inside, by Daniel Jolivet, is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Don’t forget to explore Saint Sulpice Church and Val Nançon garden to make your visit more fun.

Château de Fougères Interesting Facts

  • Château de Fougères welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year.
  • The tour to the château costs 9 € for adults. There are children and family packages available. There is also a 45-minute guided tour available to explore it.
  • The castle also hosts museum collections and unique visual and sound shows.

Château de Fougères Nearby Places to Stay

List of Hotels near Château de Fougères:

  • Hotel Campanile Fougeres
  • Hôtel particulier Le Mercier de Montigny
  • Hotel F1 Fougeres
  • Best Western Hotel Des Voyageurs
  • La Lanterne de Fougères
  • Lariboisiere
  • Chambre d’exception,de charme au coeur de la ville
  • Balzac Hotel

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns Château de Fougères?

Château de Fougères had many French and English owners, and each of them left their touch on its architecture. Since 1892, it has been acquired by the town council.

Why is the Chateau de Fougeres famous?

Château de Fougères is famously known as the largest medieval fortress in Europe. It has a deep history, which is worth exploring.

When was Chateau de Fougeres built?

The first wooden structure of Château de Fougères was built in the 11th century. In the 15th century, it was rebuilt using rocks, giving it a more defensive look.

Have you visited this castle before? If yes, why not share some beautiful pictures with us!
You can email us your pictures of the castle at castrumtocastle@gmail.com. Please use the name of the castle in the subject line.
Also, don’t forget to mention your name and social media profile link if you want the credits!

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Nitesh Kuchhal, an IIM Calcutta graduate, is more than an educator—he's a mentor. With a passion for leadership and entrepreneurship, and travel. He has explored over 20 countries. Beyond teaching, he dives into psychology and discusses social issues. Though he is not a history expert, he enjoys learning about it through books, adding a historical touch to his many interests.

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