Counts of Poitiers Palace

The Palace of the Counts of Poitiers

The Palace of the Counts of Poitiers is one of the most impressive medieval ensembles of the town, the former residence of the counts of Poitou and dukes of Aquitaine. The Poitiers audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this history-laden monument, linked to Eleanor of Aquitaine.

The residence of the counts and the Maubergeon Tower

The Palace of the Counts of Poitiers is one of the most impressive medieval architectural ensembles of France. It was the residence of the counts of Poitou and the dukes of Aquitaine, among whom the famous Eleanor of Aquitaine, queen of France then of England, who marked the history of Europe. The palace keeps remarkable elements, including the Maubergeon Tower, a former keep, and above all the great hall, the Hall of the Lost Footsteps, one of the vastest medieval civil halls preserved. It is adorned with a magnificent monumental wall-fireplace, a masterpiece of flamboyant Gothic, commissioned by Jean de Berry, surmounted by statues. After having been the seat of power, the palace became for centuries the courthouse of the town. A major witness of the power of medieval Poitou and of Gothic art, the Palace of the Counts of Poitiers is a must-see stop of the town.

What to see

You admire one of the most impressive medieval ensembles of France, the former residence of the counts of Poitou and dukes of Aquitaine including Eleanor of Aquitaine, with the Maubergeon Tower and the great Hall of the Lost Footsteps adorned with the magnificent flamboyant Gothic wall-fireplace of Jean de Berry, become later a courthouse. The Palace of the Counts is a major stop of Poitiers. It is a must-see stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Palace of the Counts of Poitiers lies in the heart of the historic centre of Poitiers, reachable on foot. The visit, notably of the great hall, follows its own hours and conditions, which vary. It is best to check the arrangements before coming.

Who resided at the Palace of the Counts of Poitiers?

The counts of Poitou and the dukes of Aquitaine, among whom the famous Eleanor of Aquitaine, queen of France then of England; the palace keeps the Maubergeon Tower and the great hall adorned with the Gothic wall-fireplace of Jean de Berry.

Where is the Palace of the Counts of Poitiers?

In the heart of the historic centre of Poitiers, in France.