The castle and the Hôtel-Dieu of Baugé, now managed by the town, are among the heritage riches of this thousand-year-old city, labeled "Most beautiful detour in France" and "Small City of Character". Known for his numerous architectural achievements, the King René, Duke of Anjou, had the castle built in the 15th century to make it his hunting lodge. Simplicity, charm and elegance are the key words of this architectural ensemble, as evidenced by the imposing spiral staircase surmounted by its palm vault.
Baugé first appeared at the beginning of the 11th century when Fulk III Nerra, Count of Anjou and formidable warrior, had a castle built on a rocky spur at the confluence of the Couesnon and Altrée rivers. a fortress intended to secure the eastern part of its territoryNo trace of this vast complex remains today, the last vestiges having been razed in the mid-19th century during the development of the current Place de l'Europe in front of the castle. Between the 11th and 14th centuries, a new castle was built on the site of the present one, but the sources are incomplete for this period. It was likely burned down during the Hundred Years' War. On these foundations, a new castle was built. from 1454 to 1465 the current castle, commissioned by René I, Duke of Anjou (1409-1480) from his architect Guillaume Robin.
The projections in the attic, the scenography of the first floor, the reconstruction of the King's chamber, the play areas, and the digital exploration and activities for families are all tools available to visitors, young and old, to to understand the life of King René, an artist at heart and a knight by duty.
The castle visit goes hand in hand with the discovery of the Hôtel-Dieu of BaugéThe city's first hospital opened in 1650 Thanks to the tenacity of two women who wanted to provide a place of refuge and care for the most destitute in the region, it closed in 2001 after 350 years of hospital activity. The ward, the Baroque chapel, the convent buildings, and the herb garden are revealed to visitors in turn. The whole complex still forms a coherent architectural ensemble today, bearing witness to the dual purpose of the place: the care of the soul and the care of the body. Among the masterpieces to discover in the Loire Valley, The apothecary is among the essentials.A mysterious atmosphere reigns in this 17th-century pharmacy, recognized as one of the richest and most complete in Europe.
- Continue your exploration of the Loire Valley with the circuit Discovering the castles near Angers which includes the Château de Baugé.
