Paris, Château de Vincennes, Guided Tour, Private

The royal castle of Vincennes will enchant young and old alike. Whether you are a lover of the history of the Middle Ages, a lover of the architecture of fortified castles, a city dweller in search of wide open spaces, or looking for terrifying stories of the most illustrious prisoners of the kingdom of France, this tour is made for you!

Many people don't know that right on the very doorstep of Paris there is a splendid medieval fortress, once a royal château and a prison. Set in a magnificent park, the Château de Vincennes was first built in the 12th century as a hunting lodge by King Louis VII - the same king that began the building of Notre Dame Cathedral. The chateau then became a walled fortress, protecting Paris from the east, and is a stunning example of 14th century architecture. Today you can still see the central tower, the moat and the imposing keep that makes Vincennes the tallest medieval fortress in Europe! 

A royal residence from the 14th century, it became the home of kings. Magnificent gothic additions were made, including a Sainte Chapelle. Louis XIV extended again, adding a King’s wing and a Queen’s wing, before moving to Versailles and establishing his court there. 

From the 16th to the 19th centuries the chateau became a prison, home to the enemies of French royalty. You’ll hear the stories of the Marquis de Sade, Nicolas Fouquet and Mirabeau who were held there, among many others. Napoleon Bonaparte finally transformed it into a military barracks and arsenal, once again using it to protect Paris from the east.

This imposing and splendid building is rich in history, and is a great visit for families with children. Often overlooked by visitors to Paris, it is a fascinating glimpse into medieval, royal and imperial France.