Beauvoir Tower

The Beauvoir Tower, a medieval vestige

The Blois audio-guided tour has you discover the Beauvoir Tower, considered one of the oldest monuments of the city, and even of France. Solid and imposing, it has resisted all the trials of time to stand still today.

A keep of the lords of Beauvoir

The tower was built between the eleventh and the twelfth century by the lords of Beauvoir, vassals of the counts of Blois, whose fief extended to the Loire. Around 1256, the counts of Blois integrated it into the fortified wall of the city, and the keep then took on a reinforced defensive function. A rare witness to medieval military architecture, it has crossed nearly nine centuries of history.

What there is to see

The Beauvoir Tower raises its massive stone silhouette in the heart of the city, a vestige of the former fortified wall of Blois. Its age and its sturdiness make it a precious testimony of the Middle Ages. Throughout its history, it has known several uses, notably as a prison. It is a stop for lovers of medieval history and defensive heritage.

Practical information

The Beauvoir Tower stands in the historic centre of Blois. The façade can be contemplated freely from the street, at all hours and on the level. Depending on the period, the monument may host exhibitions or activities; it is advisable to check the visiting conditions in advance.

When was the Beauvoir Tower built?

Between the eleventh and the twelfth century, by the lords of Beauvoir; it is one of the oldest monuments of Blois.

What role did the Beauvoir Tower play?

First a seigneurial keep, it was integrated around 1256 into the fortified wall of Blois and then knew several uses, including that of a prison.