The Château d’Angers is a large fortress with stone walls and large towers revealing the rich history of the city. Formerly the residence of the Dukes of Anjou, it is now a popular attraction and museum with sophisticated structures and pretty gardens. Learn about the construction of this immense castle and the aristocratic families that occupied it over the centuries.
The structure dates back to the 9th century, when the Counts of Anjou inhabited it. Find out about the royalty, including Philip II and King John II, that lived in this castle since its inception. Take a tour of the museum to see some of the priceless relics from the castle.
Appreciate the sheer size of the Apocalypse Tapestry, 330 feet (100 meters) long. Spend an hour inspecting the finer details of the tapestry as it meanders along the walls. The famous work of art is from the 1300s and portrays the Biblical passage of the Apocalypse. Read the book of Revelations before your visit to fully appreciate the story on the tapestry.
Stroll along the castle’s surroundings and see the chapel and courtyard. Pretend you are in the Middle Ages as you discover the quaint vineyard and garden.
Capture photos of the medieval castle and its 17 towers from outside. The towers have a diameter of 59 feet (18 meters). Note the contrast of the 9th-century tower against the modern buildings of downtown Angers in the background.
Large sections of the fortress burned down during World War II as well as during a fire in 2009. Fortunately, the tapestries survived without damage.
The fortress museum opens daily from morning until evening year-round with a few closures on public holidays. There is an admission fee for adults. Children and certain teachers and artists have free entry.
The Château d’Angers is beside the river La Maine in the heart of the city. It is less than a 15-minute walk north from the Angers Saint-Laud Railway Station. Nearby attractions in the downtown region include the Saint-Maurice d’Angers Cathedral, the Promenade Jean Turc and the Angers Museum of Fine Arts.