Château de Saumur
About This Museum
Most people don't realize the grand old Château de Saumur started life not as a palace, but as a rugged fortress built by the Dukes of Anjou to command the Loire. It's seen more lives than a cat, mind you—a noble residence, a grim state prison, and even a municipal armory. Today, it feels like the city's collective attic, packed with stories from every era. You can almost hear the whispers of dukes and prisoners in its ancient stone halls.
Collection Highlights
You'll find everything from exquisite 15th-century ceramics and intricate medieval tapestries to an entire room dedicated to the history of the horse, a nod to Saumur's famous cavalry school. Don't miss the staggering assortment of decorative arts; it’s a real treasure trove.
Visitor Information
Perched right on top of the hill, you can't miss it—just follow your eyes upwards from anywhere in town. Wandering the ramparts gives you a view of the Loire Valley that’s worth the climb all on its own.
Architecture & Building
It's a textbook example of late medieval military architecture that was later softened with Renaissance-era residential touches—all pointed towers, sturdy fortifications, and elegant dormer windows.
Contact & Location
Address: Château de Saumur, Montée du Petit Genève, Île d'Offard, Saumur, Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la Loire, France métropolitaine, 49400, France
Phone: +33 2 41 40 24 40
Website: Visit Website
