Le Raoul castle rises above the ramparts of Châteauroux and the valley of theIndre, supreme emblem of a city to which it gave its name.
His history
Founded in Xe century, this former seigniorial residence has always been the center of power in Lower Berry. Built on a rocky outcrop not far from the Cluniac abbey of Déols, the fortress dominates the left bank of theIndre. This eminently strategic position made it an object of covetousness throughout the war of Hundred years by the various factions involved.
Originally built in wood, the castle was destroyed during two fires before being rebuilt at the beginning of the XNUMXth century.e century in stone by Raoul the Large, Lord of Deols. It is up to him and six of his successors who also bear the name of Raoul that the castle owes its name. A medieval town was created naturally at the foot of the castle and by contraction over time, this town of Chateau Raoul becomes Châteauroux.
Listed as a historic monument and now located within the grounds of the prefectural residence, Château Raoul is the property of the Indre department since 1792. Renovated in a neo-Gothic style by the departmental architect Alfred Dauvergne in the nineteenthe century, it retains few traces of its rich medieval past. Two rooms can still be discovered.
A major renovation program carried out between 2009 and 2011 restored Château Raoul to its former glory and now allows it to be open to visitors from time to time, especially during the summer and European Heritage Days.
His meadow
Below, the Saint-Gildas meadow is a privileged natural space sheltering a fauna and a flora of a great richness which took again here all their rights. Nearly seventeen hectares of walks are thus available to you along the banks of theIndreand an marked discovery trail will allow you to appreciate the beauties of our genuine garden city in all serenity.
This unique green setting is also home to many animal species that the seasoned eye will be able to observe such as the European pond turtle, the kingfisher, the European beaver or the marsh copper, the vertigo moulinsiana and so many others!
- Visits are sometimes organized in the spring in partnership with the city's green spaces service to meet these little inhabitants. Information at +02 (54)34 10 74 XNUMX XNUMX.
Our best photo spots
- From Victory and Allies Square
- From the Gütersloh Bridge
Is Château Raoul open to the public?
Private property now belonging to the Department of Indre, Château Raoul is not open to visitors, except during the summer and European Heritage Days as part of guided tours and activities for young and old. These are offered by our tourist office in partnership with the Indre Departmental Council.
Is it possible to walk in the grounds of Château Raoul?
The grounds of Château Raoul are not open to the public.
Can I organize a school trip with my class to Château Raoul?
Amélie & Anna will be delighted to introduce your students to Château Raoul during an adapted visit.
- Contact Julie on 02 43 34 79 00.
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Also discover
From the Ebbes Valley to the Cordeliers convent, from the Raoul castle to the Bertrand museum, find all the places not to be missed during your stay in Châteauroux.
