On the eastern outskirts of Paris, near the town of Vincennes, and beside the Bois de Vincennes, explore the former fortress and royal home known as The Château de Vincennes . The majority of its construction took place between 1361 and 1369, and from the 14th through 16th centuries, it served as the French Kings' favored palace, second only to the Palais de la Cité. Discover the fascinating past of this remarkable structure, which served as a prison before becoming a barracks and an arsenal during the Napoleonic era.
Highlights
- Visit the famous Château de Vincennes, and be fascinated by the all-white, classic medieval building that bears witness to its former status as a royal palace.
- Explore its lofty towers and dungeon, which served to fortify the castle during battles, and stroll around its historic hallways.
- Discover the well-preserved medieval keep, the tallest fortified tower in Europe at 52 meters, where King Henry V died and see where Fouquet , the Marquis de Sade, and Mirabeau were held.
- Experience the Gothic building's awe-inspiring external flamboyance and beautiful rose window at the Sainte Chapelle de Vincennes.
It is free to enter the grounds, so there's that. It's pleasant to walk around. But if you want to enter the Donjon or the Chapelle you need to pay a little (3-4 euros). For the Chappelle just stand at the door when it is open and you will see what is there. I did not enter the Donjon which is one of the older standing castles in Paris or France. There is an art space that was showing some interesting propaganda from WW I & II and that gets you inside a part of the Chateau structure. It's easy to get to with Metro number 1. You can get back to "downtown" Rive droite by taking the 1 metro to Chatelet or Louvre.
The Chateau Of Vincennes is conveniently located at the end of the #1 metro line and easy to get to. It is completely fascinating. The church is beautiful. The Chateau was originally a royal residence, later a prison. The audio guide is a must.
Close to the bois de vincenne there is the chateau de vincenne! It is huge an beautiful! It worths a visit!