Château de Vincennes
The Château de Vincennes is a vast fortified royal complex on the eastern edge of Paris and the largest surviving royal fortress in France. A hunting lodge established by Louis VII before 1178 was transformed under John II and Charles V into a formidable stronghold; the square keep — among the tallest medieval donjons in Europe at around 52 meters — was completed around 1369–70. The château also holds a Sainte-Chapelle in Flamboyant Gothic style, begun in 1379.
It served as a royal residence, seat of government, and state prison whose inmates included Voltaire and the Marquis de Sade; Mata Hari was executed there in 1917. A major preservation campaign began in 1986, and the complex is largely open to visitors.
Visitor information
- Location
- France
- Country
- France
- Tier
- C (Worth a visit if you're already in the area)
- Coordinates
- 48.8428, 2.4358
- Official site
- http://www.chateau-vincennes.fr/
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Château de Vincennes?
- Château de Vincennes is in France, France (approximately 48.8428, 2.4358).
- Can you visit Château de Vincennes?
- Yes — Château de Vincennes is open to visitors; see the official site at http://www.chateau-vincennes.fr/ for hours and tickets.
- What tier is Château de Vincennes on the Castle Atlas?
- Château de Vincennes is rated C tier on the Castle Atlas — Worth a visit if you're already in the area.
- What can you see at Château de Vincennes?
- The Château de Vincennes is a vast fortified royal complex on the eastern edge of Paris and the largest surviving royal fortress in France. A hunting lodge established by Louis VII before 1178 was transformed under John II and Charles V into a formidable stronghold; the square keep — among the tallest medieval donjons in Europe at around 52 meters — was completed around 1369–70. The château also holds a Sainte-Chapelle in Flamboyant Gothic style, begun in 1379.