Guédelon Castle: A Medieval Construction Project

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Witness medieval history in the making at Guédelon Castle, where a 13th-century fortress is being built using authentic techniques and materials.

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Guédelon Castle

Guédelon Castle is a unique construction project started in 1997, aiming to build a medieval castle using only 13th-century techniques and materials. Visitors can witness the entire process, from quarrying stone to raising walls, offering an immersive glimpse into medieval construction and craftsmanship.

A brief summary to Guédelon Castle

D955, Treigny-Perreuse-Sainte-Colombe, 89520, FR
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Monday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
Friday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground.
Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the castle and its surroundings.
Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as much of the site is outdoors.
Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Bring cash for small purchases, as not all vendors may accept credit cards.

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Getting There

Driving

Guédelon Castle is located off the D955. From Treigny, follow the D955 for a few kilometers. Parking is available on-site. Parking cost is included in the entry ticket.
Public Transport

While public transport options are limited, you can take a regional train to nearby train stations such as Toucy-Moulins or Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye. From there, a taxi or pre-booked shuttle is necessary to cover the remaining distance to Guédelon. A taxi from Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye will cost approximately €25-€35.

Discover more about Guédelon Castle

Guédelon Castle is not just a castle; it's an extraordinary experiment in living history. Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, France, this ambitious project began in 1997 with the goal of constructing a 13th-century castle from scratch, employing only the materials and methods available at the time. Visitors to Guédelon are immediately transported back in time. The site is a hive of activity, with stonemasons, carpenters, blacksmiths, and other artisans diligently working on their respective tasks. Each element of the castle, from the imposing walls to the intricate carvings, is crafted by hand using traditional tools and techniques. The builders quarry the stone from a nearby site, mix mortar using lime and sand, and hoist materials into place with human-powered cranes. The castle is being built according to the architectural principles of the 13th century, featuring a curtain wall, towers, gatehouse, and living quarters. As the castle rises, visitors can witness the evolution of medieval construction, gaining insight into the skills and knowledge of the master builders of the past. Explanatory signs and demonstrations provide context, allowing visitors to understand the purpose and function of each element. Guédelon offers a truly immersive experience. Visitors can interact with the artisans, ask questions, and even try their hand at some of the crafts. The site also includes a medieval farm, where animals are raised and crops are grown using traditional methods, providing a glimpse into the daily life of a medieval community. The project is expected to continue for several more years, making each visit a unique opportunity to witness the ongoing construction and evolution of this remarkable castle.