The castle of Mehun-sur-Yèvre is located in the eponymous town of Mehun-sur-Yèvre, in the Cher department, 17 km north-west of Bourges.
A first fortress was erected from the 9th century on a spur dominating the confluence of the courses of the Yèvre and the Annain. This building with a military vocation succeeded a former ancient oppidum.
First owned by the local lords, from the Mehun family, it passed to the Courtenay in the 12th century and then to the house of Artois.
In 1332, Robert III of Artois having rallied the English to convince them to fight the King of France (beginning of the Hundred Years War), his property was confiscated and the fortified castle became part of the domain of the crown, c that is to say that it therefore belongs to the royal family of the Valois.
The building then reached its peak in the 14th and 15th centuries. But after the reign of Charles VII (who died there) whom Joan of Arc visited, the following sovereigns abandoned this castle, which had nevertheless become a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Indeed, it had been remodeled between 1367 and 1390 for Duke Jean de Berry by the architect Guy de Dammartin who made it a luxurious residence. The carved decoration is then due in particular to the famous workshops of André Beauneveu and Jean de Cambrai.
Damaged after being struck by lightning in the 17th century, its remains were sold during the Revolution to a materials dealer.
Nowadays, however, the foundations of this fortified castle, which has become a luxury residence, richly decorated, are still visible. Elements of sculpture have been preserved.
As for the main tower, which has withstood the ravages of time, it houses the Charles VII museum which presents remarkable archaeological collections. There are floor tiles, sculptures, ceramics... An exceptional panoramic view completes the visit.
Open weekends in March, April and October, every day except Monday in May, June and September and every day in July and August. Open by appointment for groups from November to March. Price: 6 euros (with access to the Porcelain Pole set up nearby and to the gardens) or 1 euro (to climb to the top of the tower). Information on +33 2 48 57 00 71.
