Château of Vincennes — Attraction in Nogent-sur-Marne

The Château de Vincennes is a magnificent medieval fortress located in the eastern suburbs of Paris, France. It is one of the largest and best-preserved royal castles in the country, with a history that spans over eight centuries.

The construction of the Château de Vincennes began in the 14th century under the reign of King Charles V. It was originally intended as a hunting lodge but was later expanded to serve as a royal residence and a symbol of royal power. The castle's architecture showcases a mix of medieval and Gothic styles, with its imposing towers, defensive walls, and a moat that surrounds the complex.

One of the main features of the Château de Vincennes is the Sainte-Chapelle, a stunning chapel built in the 14th century. The chapel is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings, making it a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

The castle also houses the Donjon, a massive keep that stands at over 50 meters tall. The Donjon was once used as a royal residence and a prison, and visitors can explore its interior to get a glimpse of medieval life and see the remains of the king's apartments and the chapel of Saint-Louis.

Surrounding the Château de Vincennes is the Bois de Vincennes, a vast forested park that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Paris. The park is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities, and it is also home to a zoo, a botanical garden, and several lakes.

Throughout its history, the Château de Vincennes has played a significant role in the political and military affairs of France. It served as a royal residence for several kings, including Louis IX and Charles V, and it was also used as a military fortress and a storage facility for royal treasures.

Today, the Château de Vincennes is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and architectural splendor. Guided tours are available to learn more about the castle's fascinating past, and there are also exhibitions and events held within its walls.

A visit to the Château de Vincennes offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of medieval France. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoy exploring magnificent castles, the Château de Vincennes is a must-visit...

A classic example of French bureaucracy. Don't bother visiting on a stopover to the bus station.

This historic site is located a block away from the busiest functioning gare routière in the city. They let cars and office staff drive into the chateau complex unchecked. However, they turned away tourists with rolling suitcases telling them they couldn't enter. As for me, and the gentleman in front of me, who had backpacks, despite the fact that my bag passed through the metal detector without beeping once, the Security Guard made me empty everything down to my panties and socks before letting me through. After I repacked and went to the billeterie, I was informed that there's no bag check at this museum, as it's allegedly a military site...so, it was safe enough to host Olympic parties, but not my backpack full of clothes that's already been cleared thoroughly through security for half an hour? For being a touristic site, it's incredibly not set up for tourists, and for no logical reason. Since they only let you into the Saint Chapelle and the Keep anyhow, and since I'd already seen a good amount just trying to find the entrance and walking to the ticket office, I decided to keep my 13€ and read the historical signs posted outside and search its history on...

Château de Vincennes was one of my favorite things I toured while in Paris!! It's a beautiful and well-preserved medieval fortress just outside Paris. I took a quick metro ride over & went as soon as they opened. I had the entire place to myself. It was WILD to be touring a historical place in Paris without the typical massive crowds of tourists. It felt like a secret unknown spot from the mass of tourists & was refreshing after a week of non stop crowds everywhere I toured.

You can walk around outside for free & see the massive chapel & keep. For a cheap ticket you can then explore INSIDE the fortress & the chapel. The inside of the fortress is preserved & it was stunning to walk inside something built in the 1300s. It was really jaw dropping. Once you scan your ticket & enter, you can walk around, explore, take photos & take in the history at your own pace away from large tourist crowds or anyone bothering you. It was very peaceful to walk down the hallways of something so historic.

If you love history, want to see a historic (mid evil) piece of Paris or just want a break from the typical Paris crowds, this place is for you! I was SO glad I gave this spot time during my busy...