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Château de Meung-sur-Loire: A Castle of Two Faces

Discover the Château de Meung-sur-Loire, a historic Loire Valley castle with two distinct architectural styles and a rich history dating back to the 13th century.

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The Château de Meung-sur-Loire is a historic castle in the Loire Valley, dating back to the 13th century. Once a residence for bishops and even a prison, it showcases both medieval and classical architectural styles, with over 2,000 objects on display within its walls.

A brief summary to Château de Meung-sur-Loire

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Explore both the medieval and classical sides of the castle to appreciate its unique architectural blend.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the visit involves walking through the castle, gardens, and potentially the underground passages.
  • Check the schedule for special events and activities, especially if visiting with children.
  • Note that the underground passages can be cool, even in summer, so bring a jacket.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Château de Meung-sur-Loire is located in the center of the town of Meung-sur-Loire, easily accessible on foot from most points within the town. From the Place du Martroi, the castle is directly accessible. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Meung-sur-Loire is accessible by train from Orléans and Tours. From the Meung-sur-Loire train station, it's approximately a 10-minute walk to the castle. Follow the main road (Rue du Général de Gaulle) into the town center, then turn left onto Place du Martroi. The castle will be directly in front of you. Train tickets from Orléans range from €3-€8. A local bus service, Rémi, also connects Meung-sur-Loire with nearby towns, with tickets costing around €3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Meung-sur-Loire. A taxi from the train station to the castle would be a short ride, costing approximately €10-€15. However, walking is a viable option.

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Discover more about Château de Meung-sur-Loire

The Château de Meung-sur-Loire, one of the largest and most ancient castles in the Loiret region, presents a captivating blend of history and architectural styles. Known as the "castle of two faces," it uniquely features two facades from different eras: an imposing medieval facade from the 13th century facing the town and an elegant 18th-century classical facade overlooking the gardens. Originally built in the 13th century, the château served as the prestigious residence of the Bishops of Orléans until the French Revolution. Throughout its history, it has hosted notable figures such as Louis XI, François I, Joan of Arc, and the poet François Villon, who was once imprisoned within its walls. The castle even played a strategic role during the Hundred Years' War before Joan of Arc liberated it from English control. A visit to the Château de Meung-sur-Loire offers an immersive experience into castle life, with over 20 furnished rooms and 2,000 objects on display. Explore the grand attics, the dark underground passageways, a neoclassical chapel, and 18th-century bathrooms. The 7-hectare park retains vestiges of an English garden. Today, the Château de Meung-sur-Loire is a private residence open to the public. Visitors can explore its furnished rooms, wander through its gardens, and even venture into the intriguing underground passages. Special activities and exhibits are frequently held, including dragon-themed trails, suspended nets, and historical investigations.

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