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Château de Meauce: A Medieval Marvel Reborn

Discover a beautifully restored medieval castle in the heart of Burgundy, offering a unique glimpse into French history and architecture.

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The Château de Meauce, located in Saincaize-Meauce, is a captivating medieval castle with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Once a strategic stronghold, it fell into disrepair but is now being lovingly restored by its owners and volunteers, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.

A brief summary to Castle of Meauce

Local tips

  • Visit during the European Heritage Days ('Journées Européennes du Patrimoine') to discover more about the castle with volunteers.
  • Check the castle's website for events, such as medieval festivals and concerts, which help fund the restoration.
  • Consider a picnic in the courtyard or under the lime tree avenues for a charming experience.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Nevers, take the Line 10 bus towards Saincaize-Meauce. The bus ride takes approximately 42 minutes to the Les 4 Cheminées bus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Château de Meauce. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

  • Taxi

    From Nevers, a taxi ride to Château de Meauce takes approximately 18 minutes. The estimated cost for a taxi is between €30 and €40. Uber is also available in the area.

  • Car

    From Nevers, drive southwest on the D977 towards Saincaize-Meauce. The drive is approximately 13.3 km and takes about 18 minutes. Free parking is available at the Château de Meauce.

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Discover more about Castle of Meauce

Nestled in the heart of the Nièvre department, the Château de Meauce stands as a testament to centuries of French history and architectural evolution. Built upon a feudal mound overlooking the Allier River, the castle's origins trace back to the 11th century, with the first known lords of Meauce appearing in records around 1070. Its unique round shape sets it apart from other castles in the Nivernais region. Originally constructed in the 13th century, the castle was strategically important, serving as a key point of contention between the French and Burgundians. It faced destruction by the English during the Hundred Years' War in the 1360s but was rebuilt almost identically. The castle's design features a circular and polygonal shape, giving it the appearance of a massive tower enclosing an interior courtyard. Thick enclosure walls, some 3 meters wide, remain from the original fortress. For nearly a century, the castle was abandoned, leading to its deterioration. However, new owners and a dedicated association of volunteers have undertaken significant conservation efforts to restore it to its former glory. Today, visitors can explore the castle's grounds, admire its architecture, and learn about its fascinating past. The castle also hosts events throughout the year to support its restoration. The surrounding area offers natural beauty, with the castle located near the Bec d'Allier, a natural site known for its diverse birdlife. The castle is classified as a historical monument since 1923.

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