Tours Castle

The castle of Tours

In the land of the Loire castles, the castle of Tours, a stop on the Tours audio-guided tour, is more modest than its neighbours. Yet this comital castle built in the eleventh century welcomed many distinguished guests over the centuries.

A city divided in two

The castle rises on the former Gallo-Roman wall of the fourth century. In the Middle Ages, Tours was divided in two: on one side the fortified town of Chateauneuf, around the basilica of Saint-Martin, on the other the castle of the counts of Touraine, the cathedral of Saint-Gatien and the only bridge over the Loire. In the thirteenth century, after the Touraine was attached to the crown, the kings of France enlarged it into a royal domain.

What to see

The castle witnessed great events, such as the betrothal of Charles VII or the marriage of Louis XI. Gradually abandoned by the kings over the centuries, it now houses an exhibition centre open to the public. Look at its towers and walls, witnesses to the medieval history of the city.

Practical information

The castle of Tours is in the heart of the city, near the Loire. It hosts exhibitions throughout the year; opening days and times should be checked depending on the season with the Tours museums.

When does the castle of Tours date from ?

The comital castle was built in the eleventh century, on the former Gallo-Roman wall of the fourth century.

What can be seen there today ?

It houses an exhibition centre presenting exhibitions throughout the year.