Ancy-le-Franc castle is found in the Yonne department south-east of Tonnerre, on the Canal de Bourgogne (Burgundy canal). Built between 1542 and 1550 Ancy-le-Franc was one of the first Renaissance chateaux to be constructed in France.
Visiting the Chateau Ancy-le-Franc
The castle is roughly square in shape around a central square courtyard, and set within extensive landscaped gardens.It is essentially an early example of renaissance architecture in France, even if the exterior lacks some of the flamboyant flourishes that would be included on castles built later in the period.
The unassuming but quietly elegant exterior of this 16th century castle conceals a grand Italian style courtyard and an interior with several very grand rooms and including some very good frescoes and wall paintings - in fact the Chateau d'Ancy-le Franc has the largest collection of renaissance paintings to be found in France, mostly dating from the 16th - 17th centuries.
The architect and decoration of Ancy-le-Franc castle were under the control of some of the same individuals responsible for Fontainebleau, and are richly decorated with painted ceilings, frescoed and panelled walls, and intricated parquet floors. Among the most impressive rooms are:
- the Chambre des Arts, with a fine parquet floor and elaborately painted walls and ceilings
- the Galleries of Médée, Sacrifices and Pharsale, above all for their stunning floor designs and walls
- the paintings in the bedrooms of Judith and of Flowers
Outside the castle you can explore the extensive gardens, which include both formal French style gardens and others in the more informal English style. The Burgundy canal provides a further scenic backdrop to the castle.
Admission price for Ancy-le-Franc Castle is 9 euros, with reductions for students, children etc. Guided visits only.
Attractions nearby
Most visitors to the castle at Ancy-le-France will also want to visit Tanlay Castle, not far (about 10 kilometres) to the north-west from here.
There are several interesting towns in the region: our favourite is Noyers-sur-Serein, a short distance south-west of Ancy-le-Franc and with a delightful historic centre.
See more castles in France. You can find more travel ideas in the Yonne guide and the Burgundy guide.
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Map of Chateau d'Ancy-le-Franc and places nearby
Visit near Chateau d'Ancy-le-Franc with France This Way reviews
Chateau de Tanlay
The frescoes and interior decoration are among the highlights of a visit to the moated Tanlay castle
Chateau de Tanlay guide
Noyers-sur-Serein
The half-timbered houses and riverside setting make Noyers-sur-Serein one of our favourite small towns in this region
Noyers-sur-Serein guide
Tonnerre
There are two impressive sites to see in Tonnerre: the medieval hospital complex, and the water source called the Fosse Dionne
Tonnerre guide
Montbard
A typical regional town, we suggest you take a stroll around the Parc Buffon in Montbard
Montbard guide
Fontenay Abbey
The complex of buildings at the Abbey de Fontenay, and the surrounding gardens and woodlands, make this one of our favourite French abbeys
Fontenay Abbey guide
Montreal
Behind its fortified entrance, the small village of Montreal is a very unspoiled medieval village
Montreal guide... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Yonne
The French version of this page is at Chateau d'Ancy-le-Franc (Francais)