| Location | Saumur, Loire Valley, France (Google Map Location) |
| Open for visitors | Yes |
| Owned by | French Government |
| Official website | Chateau De Saumur |
| Rooms available | No |
If you look down the Loire riverside, the cobblestone paths, and half-wooded places of Saumur’s climatic Old Town – you will find the grand Château de Saumur standing in all its glory. It is considered among the most pleasant palace site in the Loire Valley, and its monumental outline is universal. In the 14th century, the palace discontinuously served as an administration home, a military sleeping quarters, a jail, and a weapons depot for Louis I, the Duke of Anjou. It is currently home to the Saumur Municipal Museum.
Chateau De Saumur History
In the 10th century, the principal stones were laid by Theobold the Trickster, Count of Blois. Not long before, the château was seized by the reckless Fulk III the Black, who made it the property of the counts of Anjou. It later fell under the control of the Plantagenets before being won back for the French high position by Phillip Augustus of France in 1203.
In the 14th century, Louis I of Anjou got the château as a privilege and changed it into a grand regal home. New amenities were assembled, and the external walls were raised, adding levels to the fireplaces, peaks, and belvederes.
During the rule of King René, the château went through additional rebuilding work when the sanctuary was revamped. The ruler decorated the court interior with the grandeurs of the French court. After the lord’s passing, the Château of Saumur was forgotten for nearly 100 years until the town was surrendered to the Protestants. Later, the new governor representative, Philippe Duplessis-Mornay, launched another redesign project for the palace.
The château was also utilised as a jail and weapons depot until 1889, significantly affecting its structure. In the mid-twentieth century, the château was offered to the town of Saumur by the State in some degree harmed condition. The city launched a remodel project, finishing work on the northern wing and making the principal exhibition hall and horse museum.
The château, tragically, endured harm during the Second World War and again in 2001 when a portion of the northern keep imploded. The new maintenance was initiated in 2007, after which the palace experienced a boom in tourists.
Chateau De Saumur Architecture
In contrast to many palaces of the Loire valley, Saumur palace doesn’t have a period-style decorated room. However, it is a historical centre with many items shown in its rooms. The views of the town and the stream from the palace are one more significant fascination of a visit.
Chateau De Saumur Interiors
Your visit begins in the central courtyard and includes a few spaces for the ground floor and first floor. The balcony initially had structures on all sides, but the west wing was demolished in the 17th century.
Around the palace’s premises, you can see the wells that provided Chateau de Saumur with water for around 600 years, huge renaissance-style stairs, and the room where justice was given.
An underground room is also accessed by a flight of stairs from the yard and is under the patio. This is a huge room where food and other provisions were preserved in the past.
The rooms on the first floor are more spectacular; specifically, the rooms added and furnished by Louis I in the 14th century in the north wing. The gazebo overlooking the sceneries of the town and Loire stream is also stretched out from an entrance. But, if you are planning to enjoy the gazebo and its view, you have to pay a fee of three euros and a standard entry costs around seven euros.
The estate also includes a museum with a collection of furniture, porcelain, and embroidered works of art. The gallery was established in the palace in 1912 when the collection turned out to be huge for the room in the Town Hall where it was previously shown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who lived in Saumur castle?
The château of Saumur has been the residence of many valour kings and dynasties. It was a residence of the Dukes of Anjou in the 14th and 15th centuries. Before which, it was the former home of King René I. It also served as the royal residence for the Valois dynasty during the end of the Middle Ages.
Is Saumur worth visiting?
Yes, it is undoubtedly worth visiting. Apart from the Château De Saumur, it is also famous for two other things: its terrific sparkling wine (you can see many of the producers) and its military establishments. Here you’ll find the Armored Corps Academy and the French Cavalry Academy, housed in two-story benevolent eighteenth-century structures around a dusty square that is presently a car park.
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 Kucchal
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.
