The Château d'Étampes, located in the charming town of Étampes in the Essonne department of France, is a remarkable testament to medieval architecture and history. Perched on the edge of the Hurepoix plateau, this ancient royal fortress, now known primarily for its remaining donjon called the Tour de Guinette, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of French history.
The origins of Château d'Étampes date back to the early 12th century when it was constructed at the behest of Louis VII. The donjon, built around 1150, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era. Throughout its history, the fortress played a crucial role in the defense and control of the Paris-Orléans route, a vital artery of the royal domain.
During the late 12th century, Philippe Auguste expanded the castle with a square enclosure and a second defensive wall. The castle's strategic importance was further highlighted when it served as the residence of the exiled Queen Ingeburge between 1201 and 1213. The Château d'Étampes was a site of numerous conflicts, including its capture by the English in 1358, its subsequent recapture by Charles V, and the siege led by Jean sans Peur in 1411.
In the late 15th and early 16th centuries, the castle hosted notable figures such as Charles the Bold after the Battle of Montlhéry, Anne of Brittany in 1513, and Claude of France in 1516. However, the castle's military significance waned, and in 1589, Henri IV authorized the dismantling of the fortress, leaving only the donjon standing. The site continued to witness tumultuous events, including a siege in 1652 and its eventual sale as national property during the French Revolution.
The donjon of Château d'Étampes, with its unique quadrilobed design, is an architectural marvel. Each lobe of the structure measures 7 meters in diameter and rises to a height of 36 meters. The central well, around which the donjon is built, adds to the fortress's defensive capabilities. The donjon was surrounded by a square platform, fortified by a series of walls and towers, creating a formidable defense system.
The first enclosure, a square structure measuring 54 meters on each side, was protected by four corner towers. Access to the donjon was granted through a drawbridge at the southeast corner. Beyond this, a second square enclosure, measuring 90 meters on each side, housed a chapel dedicated to Saint Lawrence and a residential building. This area also featured additional defensive walls and towers, creating a layered defense system that made the fortress nearly impregnable.
The third enclosure, an approximately hexagonal structure, extended the castle's defenses further. This outer wall was reinforced with a rectangular battery and three towers to the south. Two main gates, the Porte d'Étampes to the northeast and the Porte de Dourdan to the northwest, provided access to the castle. These gates were connected by an inner courtyard, further protected by additional gates and towers.
Visitors to the Château d'Étampes can explore the intricate interior of the donjon, which reveals the ingenuity of medieval architecture. The entrance to the donjon leads to a vestibule with a defensive pit designed to trap assailants. The first underground level features a well and latrines, with walls pierced by three arrow slits for defense.
The first floor, accessible via a staircase within the wall, served as a guardroom with additional arrow slits for defense. This room also provided access to the well and latrines. The second floor, reached by a spiral staircase, opens into a gallery illuminated by three windows. This gallery leads to a grand hall, featuring a vaulted ceiling supported by four columns and adorned with two fireplaces and several alcoves.
The third floor, an attic space, is accessible via another spiral staircase. This level housed four wooden tribunes and offered a vantage point for observing the surrounding area. The donjon's roof, marked by two round additions over the north and south lobes, provided further defensive and observational capabilities.
Today, the Tour de Guinette stands as a symbol of the rich history and architectural heritage of Étampes. Classified as a historical monument in 1862, the donjon has been preserved and maintained as a site of cultural and historical significance. The surrounding area, once a bustling fortress, has been transformed into a tranquil park, offering visitors a peaceful setting to reflect on the past.
In conclusion, the Château d'Étampes is more than just a historical monument; it is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of medieval architecture. Its walls echo stories of royal intrigue, military strategy, and the passage of time. A visit to this remarkable site offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of a bygone era.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
