Château de Clisson

Discover the Enchanting Château de Clisson in Clisson

Nestled in the picturesque town of Clisson, the Château de Clisson stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural grandeur of the region. This magnificent castle, built by the powerful Clisson family in the 12th century, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past. Let's embark on a journey to explore the wonders of this enchanting château.

A Historical Gem

The Château de Clisson has witnessed centuries of tumultuous events, making it a significant historical landmark. Originally constructed as a fortress, it played a crucial role in protecting the border of the Duchy of Brittany during the 15th century. The castle's defensive architecture, including archers, gunboats, and stunners, still stands as a testament to its strategic importance.

Architectural Marvels

As you wander through the castle grounds, you'll be awestruck by the architectural marvels that await you. The castle's original form was an irregular polygon with round towers, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Sèvre Nantaise. Over the years, various additions and modifications were made, resulting in a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles.

One of the highlights is the massive quadrangular keep, incorporated by Olivier III de Clisson in the 14th century. Although the semicircular towers of the gatehouse collapsed in the 17th century, the imposing structure still exudes a sense of grandeur. The castle's fortifications were also modernized in the 15th century to accommodate the use of artillery, further enhancing its defensive capabilities.

Fun Facts and Haunting Legends

Did you know that the Château de Clisson is said to be haunted by the ghost of Jeanne de Clisson, the wife of Olivier IV de Clisson? Legend has it that she sought revenge for her husband's execution by becoming a pirate and wreaking havoc on the enemies of the French crown. Her spirit is said to wander the castle, adding an air of mystery and intrigue to the already captivating atmosphere.

Things to Do and See

A visit to the Château de Clisson offers a range of activities and experiences. Explore the castle's interior, where you can admire the well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture. Take a guided tour to learn more about the castle's history and the fascinating stories of its former inhabitants.

The castle also hosts workshops and games-discovery activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the medieval world. Engage in hands-on experiences and learn about the daily life of the castle's inhabitants.

When to Visit

The Château de Clisson is open all year round, except for specific closure dates. From January to April and October to December, the castle welcomes visitors from 2 PM to 5:30 PM, except on Tuesdays. During the months of May to September, the castle extends its opening hours from 10:30 AM to 6 PM, again except on Tuesdays.

Plan Your Visit

To access the castle, the admission fee is €3 for adults and €2 for reduced categories such as teenagers, unemployed individuals, and groups of 15 people or more. Children under 14, visitors with disabilities, journalists, heritage specialists, tourism professionals, and Pass Nantes holders enjoy free entry.

Conveniently located, the Château de Clisson offers free parking nearby. For more information or to make reservations for group visits, you can contact the castle at 02 40 54 02 22 or via email at [email protected].

Uncover the Magic of Château de Clisson

A visit to the Château de Clisson is a journey through time, where history comes alive amidst stunning architectural wonders. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories, explore the castle's nooks and crannies, and let the enchantment of this historical gem transport you to a bygone era.