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Chateau Gaillard

At 40km from Rouen, Chateau Gaillard is a classified historic monument (classified 1852) standing in ruins above the village of Les Andelys.

The castle was built by Richard the Lionheart in 1196, and remained intact until Henry IV had it destroyed in 1603. In the interim it had a colourful history, including the terrible siege of 1203 in which many hundreds died of hunger in the castle, part of the wars between England and France at that epoque.

Various sieges and imprisonments continued during the centuries that followed - including the imprisonment (and death) of the adulterous wife of Louis X. In 1417 the castle held out against a siege by the English for 16 months, eventually failing because the last rope that was being used to get water from the wells broke.

But the ruins remain, a romantic and evocative sight on the hill with far reaching views over the Seine Valley, and are a highlight of a visit to the region. History oozes from the castle, a fascinating testament to the events that have taken place here.

(Read about the Siege of Chateau Gaillard or see more detail about Chateau Gaillard at our castles in France section)

Chateau Gaillard: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites

photo kindly contributed by L Williams see more photos of Chateau Gaillard

PLAN A VISIT TO CHATEAU GAILLARD Hotels Chateau Gaillard See Hotels in France Holiday rentals / travel See Normandy gites Car hire Property for sale Chateau Gaillard Normandy property for sale PLACES TO VISIT NEAR CHATEAU GAILLARD Explore places near Chateau Gaillard

Places to visit - Chateau Gaillard

Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map: Chateau Gaillard.

Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Chateau Gaillard are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)

• Giverny Gardens Renowned Monet gardens at 23 km
• La-Roche-Guyon Most beautiful village at 30 km
• Lyons-la-Foret Most beautiful village at 18 km

- See also Chateau Gaillard (version Francais)

 

Information and photos

This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Chateau Gaillard when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.