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Château de Saint-Fargeau: A Millennial Journey Through French History

Discover a thousand years of French history at the Château de Saint-Fargeau, a majestic castle with captivating tours and summer historical spectacles.

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The Château de Saint-Fargeau, a majestic pink brick fortress in the Yonne department of Burgundy, France, has origins tracing back to a 10th-century hunting lodge. Rebuilt in the 15th century and remodeled in the 17th, it offers visitors a captivating journey through ten centuries of French history.

A brief summary to Castle of Saint-Fargeau

Local tips

  • Allow at least two hours for a self-guided tour to fully explore the interior, stables and exterior park.
  • Visit during the summer to witness the impressive historical spectacle involving hundreds of actors and riders.
  • Check the schedule for night tours by candlelight for a unique and atmospheric experience.
  • Explore the 120-hectare park, featuring an ornamental lake, ancient trees, and vintage steam locomotives.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Saint-Fargeau, the Château is easily accessible by car. Parking is available near the castle. Follow local signs directing you to 'Le Château'. Note that parking may be limited during peak season or special events. Expect to pay for parking during special events.

  • Walking

    The Château de Saint-Fargeau is located within the village of Saint-Fargeau, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the village. From the center of town, follow the signs towards 'Le Château'. The walk is generally short and straightforward.

  • Public Transport

    While Saint-Fargeau is a smaller town, bus services connect it to nearby cities like Auxerre. From the bus stop in Saint-Fargeau, the Château is a short walk. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Bus tickets typically cost around €2-€5 for a short trip within the region.

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Discover more about Castle of Saint-Fargeau

Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, the Château de Saint-Fargeau stands as a testament to over a thousand years of French history. Originally built as a fortified hunting lodge in the 10th century by Héribert, the Bishop of Auxerre, the castle evolved through various noble families, each leaving their mark on its architecture and legacy. The current pentagonal structure, with its six imposing towers, dates back to 1453 when Antoine de Chabannes commissioned its construction on the foundations of the original fortress. In the 17th century, Anne-Marie Louise d'Orléans, known as La Grande Mademoiselle and cousin to Louis XIV, was exiled to Saint-Fargeau. During her five-year stay, she collaborated with architect François Le Vau to redesign the castle's interior facades in a classical style. Today, the Château de Saint-Fargeau is a listed Historic Monument open to the public from April to mid-November. Visitors can explore the furnished apartments, guard room, chapel, and the re-creation of La Grande Mademoiselle's bedroom. The highlight for many is the ancient attic with its impressive framework. The castle also boasts a 120-hectare English-style park with an ornamental lake, centuries-old trees, and vintage steam locomotives. In the summer, the castle comes alive with a spectacular historical show featuring over 600 volunteers and 50 horse riders. This performance immerses visitors in key moments of French history, from the Middle Ages to the Revolution. Candlelight tours also offer a unique way to experience the castle at night.

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