An emblematic monument of the Loire Valley...
Located on the perimeter of the Loire Valley classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the royal fortress of Chinon is built on a rocky outcrop which offers magnificent views of the Vienne and the roofs of the city. Last refuge of Henry II Plantagenet, King of England, its thousand-year-old walls have welcomed Eleanor of Aquitaine, King Charles VII and Joan of Arc during major turning points in the history of France.
Young and old visit the monument with the HistoPad for an immersive and interactive dive into the Middle Ages: they rediscover rooms that have been transformed or disappeared, virtually reconstructed in their original state, allowing a spectacular 360 degree immersion ° at the heart of the 12th, 14th and 15th centuries. Visitors cross the walls to explore an inaccessible space, relive the exceptional Christmas court of Henri II Plantagenêt in the great hall of his palace or attend the scene of the Recognition with Joan of Arc.
Two royal bedrooms have been reconstructed: emblematic rooms of the royal dwellings, the furniture and decorations of the royal bedrooms have been entrusted to craftsmen. In Charles VII's intimate bedroom, a gold-embroidered quilt and a hanging canopy or even a whirling bench are the centerpieces of this reconstruction. In Eleanor of Aquitaine's room, the wealth of furniture and paintings, works of art transport you to the daily life of a queen in the 12th century.
Several rooms allow you to discover collections dedicated to Joan of Arc or to the archaeological excavations carried out on the site.
A space is dedicated to the Plantagenet dynasty: knight-kings who claim a prestigious lineage, a refined court renowned throughout Europe, an immense empire stretching from Scotland to the Pyrenees, are the ingredients of the Plantagenêt saga! Manipulations, model, 3D reconstruction allow you to measure the importance of the royal fortress of Chinon for these kings.
An arms room displays a collection of authentic 15th century helmets and crossbows as well as a replica of Milanese armour.
Visits, exhibitions and events are offered all year round.
