Between Sologne and Beauce, on the banks of the royal river, stands the Château de Meung-sur-Loire. It is nicknamed the A castle with two faces due to its medieval and classical facadesThe cradle of the Capetians, it was until the French Revolution the prestigious residence of the bishops of OrléansIt is one of the few castles built by and for bishops. It is in 13th century that Bishop Manassès de Seignelay erected a real palace, a residence worthy of him and his rank. Expansions were carried out in the following centuries, notably during the Hundred Years' War when the bishops enlarged the castle and added a new tower.
At the beginning of the 18th century, work was carried out that transformed the monument: this marked the birth of the castle with two faces. In 1706, Bishop Fleuriau d'Armenonville obtained 20,000 livres from King Louis XIV for the restoration of the castle then considered dilapidated. While the town side of the castle retains the rigor of its medieval architecture, the other façade, facing the garden, has been completely redesigned to give the appearance of a classical château. The façades are unified, pierced with large bays, and the walls are whitewashed in red, making the Château de Meung-sur-Loire one of the few painted châteaux in France.
Since 2010, the Château de Meung-sur-Loire has been the property of Elise and Xavier LelevéMajor restoration work is underway, along with studies to better understand the history and structure of the castle. visit route has been put in place in which more than 2000 objects are on displayTaking visitors from the attic down to the cellars, the tour allows them to discover daily life in a lordly residence through the centuries. They are invited to wander through the 18th-century bathroom, the smoking room, the herb room, and the magnificent neoclassical chapel, following in the footsteps of Louis XI, Francis I, Joan of Arc, and even the poet François Villon, who was imprisoned in the castle. The tour is enhanced with original and surprising elements: a scent-based experience, interactive displays featuring objects in the form of fun quizzes, and a video show in the cellars.
The castle of Meung-sur-Loire is a ideal destination for families, thanks to a rich and varied range of activities. Young and old alike can embark on an adventure in the mysterious Land of DragonsChildren can test their agility in the suspended nets or marvel at the animals in the mini-farm. Throughout the year, and especially during school holidays, the castle offers a wealth of activities: shows, workshops, treasure hunts… Something to delight budding explorers and heritage enthusiasts alike!
- Continue your exploration of the Loire Valley with the circuit On the roads of the Loiret within which this monument is situated.
