Louis XI, king builder: an exhibition to be seen from 12 May to 12 November 2023.
On the north bank of the river Loire, Chateau of Langeais and its drawbridge are imposing, closing the perspective of the main street of the city. At a glance, we are transported back to the Middle Ages. But… a very different facet of the monument is revealed from the courtyard. Freed from defensive constraints, the interior façade displays the signs of a Renaissance residence. A double face therefore, in the image of the man who wanted it rebuilt (the pre-existing castle was destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War) in 1465: Louis XI.
Louis XI was crowned king in 1461 and initiated numerous constructions throughout the kingdom of France, particularly during his many journeys to establish his royal power. A travelling king, a builder… we are finally quite far from the image of a tyrant, regularly conveyed about the character.
After spending his childhood in Loches and then Amboise, Louis XI wanted to establish royal power in Tours as soon as he was crowned. He had the castle of Plessis-lès-Tours built, where he died in 1483. A little further west, the castle of Langeais was built to secure access to the Loire. And it is here that an exhibition is dedicated to him from 12 May to 12 November.
The Chateau of Langeais
Its richly furnished interiors decorated with tapestries bear witness to the lifestyle of the great lords of the late Middle Ages. Within these walls, on 6 December 1491, the marriage of King Charles VIII (the son of Louis XI) and Anne of Brittany took place, marking the beginning of Brittany’s attachment to the kingdom of France.
During the school holidays, numerous activities for the whole family allow a very pleasant discovery of the site, from the great banqueting hall to the lady’s bedroom. After walking the covered way like knights, head for the park and the hut perched in an incredible Atlas cedar. Finally, from the belvedere, admire the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The tree hunt
Around the castle, the town.
Lady's bedroom
A walk into the park
Entertainment
Practical information
Prices => Adult: 11,50 € / Child 10-17 years: 5,80 € / Free for children under 10 years
Entertainment without extra charge and without reservation
37130 LANGEAIS – 02 47 96 72 60