At the heart of the Loire castles area, Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher in Loir-et-Cher is above all known for its animal park: the ZooParc de Beauval. Yet the town has a rich historical past which we invite you to discover through its monuments. Built on the site of an old 9th-century fortress of which only the Hagard tower remains, the Renaissance château towers over the houses of the medieval town. Although visitors cannot go inside, the main courtyard and terraces are accessible and offer stunning views of the town's rooftops and the Cher Valley's landscapes.
The 11th and 12th-century Romanesque collegiate church is another of Saint-Aignan's historic monuments. Admire the sixteen-metre-high nave supported by eight columns with carved capitals, along with the Romanesque central bell tower. If you go to the crypt, you will see murals from the 10th century. Bear in mind that you can reach the château from the collegiate church directly via a flight of steps. The former Hôtel-Dieu (hospital for the poor) is a 17th-century building attributed to Mansart.
During your visit, you will also be able to see beautiful houses, such as the Gothic Prévôté dating from the 14th century or the Villa Rose from the beginning of the 20th century. Let your curiosity guide you to Rue du Conventionnel Grégoire, where the Leonardo fresco can be seen on the gable of a house.
Ranked among the five best zoos in the world, the famous ZooParc de Beauval is home to more than 10,000 animals, including rare species such as giant pandas from China, okapis, and koalas from Australia. An unmissable attraction for children and grown-ups alike!
