Château de Saumur

The Château de Saumur, nestled in the picturesque Loire Valley in the town of Saumur, France, is a stunning testament to medieval architecture and history. This magnificent castle, perched on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Loire and Thouet rivers, has been a silent witness to centuries of French history. Its imposing towers, elegant turrets, and fortified walls make it a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the charm of the Loire Valley.

The History of Château de Saumur

The origins of Château de Saumur can be traced back to the 10th century when Thibaud I the Trickster, Count of Blois, established the first fortifications around the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Florent. In 1026, the castle fell into the hands of the famous Fulk III of Anjou, also known as Fulk Nerra, who passed it down to his Plantagenet heirs. The castle's strategic location made it a coveted prize, and in 1203, it was seized by King Philip Augustus of France. He razed the previous fortifications and constructed a new donjon with buttresses, transforming the site into a formidable fortress.

Under the reign of Saint Louis in 1227, the castle was further fortified, and substantial enhancements were made. The most significant transformation occurred in 1368 when Louis I of Anjou, the grandson of Philip VI, embarked on a nine-year project to replace the old round towers with octagonal ones. These modifications gave the castle its distinctive appearance, which can still be admired today.

René of Anjou, who affectionately referred to the castle as the château d'amour, resided here until 1480 and made significant improvements to its comfort and aesthetics. The castle's romantic allure is immortalized in the famous manuscript Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, where it is depicted during the grape harvest.

In the late 16th century, the castle underwent further modernization under the guidance of the Italian military architect Bartholomeo. It was during this period that the castle's defenses were reinforced with an Italian-style enceinte, ensuring its continued strategic importance.

In a surprising turn of events, the castle was converted into a prison by Napoleon in 1810. Although the cells were used for only three months, the castle remained a depot for arms and munitions under Louis XVIII. Explosions from the stored munitions often disturbed the residents of Saumur, prompting further changes to the castle's function.

The Château de Saumur was classified as a historical monument in 1862 and later added to the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes-sur-Loire. In 2001, a portion of the northern rampart collapsed, leading to a significant stabilization and reconstruction project that was completed in 2007.

Exploring Château de Saumur

Visitors to the Château de Saumur are treated to a journey through centuries of history, with each corner of the castle offering a glimpse into its storied past. The castle's architecture is a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles, with its octagonal towers and fortified walls standing as a testament to the ingenuity of its builders.

One of the highlights of the castle is its double-helix staircase, reminiscent of the one designed by Leonardo da Vinci. This unique feature allowed nobles and servants to use the same staircase without ever crossing paths. The staircase leads to the belvedere, offering breathtaking views of the Loire Valley and the town of Saumur.

The castle's kitchens, depicted in the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, are separated from the main palace to minimize the risk of fire. The miniature illustration shows the chimney of the kitchens, providing a fascinating glimpse into medieval culinary practices.

The Museum

In 1906, the town of Saumur acquired the castle and began a gradual restoration process. Today, the castle houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, featuring a remarkable collection of ceramics, furniture, and tapestries donated by Count Charles Lair. The museum also includes the Horse Equipment Museum, showcasing the rich equestrian heritage of the region.

The museum is divided into several sections, each offering a unique perspective on the castle's history and the art and culture of the Loire Valley. The first floor of the north wing is home to the municipal museum, while the second floor houses the Horse Museum. The collection of ceramics and tapestries, dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries, is particularly impressive and provides a vivid insight into the artistic achievements of the period.

Visiting Château de Saumur

A visit to the Château de Saumur is not complete without taking in the panoramic views from its ramparts. The castle's elevated position offers stunning vistas of the Loire River, the town of Saumur, and the surrounding vineyards. The lush vineyards that stretch out below the castle are a reminder of the region's rich winemaking tradition, and visitors can often enjoy wine tastings and tours of local wineries.

In conclusion, the Château de Saumur is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Its storied past, from medieval fortress to Renaissance residence, and its transformation into a cultural and artistic hub, make it a must-visit attraction in the Loire Valley. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a picturesque escape, the Château de Saumur promises an unforgettable experience.