Perched high above the Seine River, the imposing ruins of Château-Gaillard stand as a silent sentinel of medieval warfare and royal ambition. Built in just two years (1196-1198) by Richard the Lionheart, King of England and Duke of Normandy, this fortress was designed to defend the Norman borders against the French King Philip Augustus.
⚔️ A Fortress Born from Rivalry
The late 12th century was a time of fierce conflict between the Duchy of Normandy (ruled by the English crown) and the Kingdom of France. Richard, known for his military genius, constructed Château-Gaillard—meaning “Saucy Castle“—as both a strategic stronghold and a bold statement of power.
🔹 Why was it built? To block French advances into Normandy.
🔹 Why is it special? Its revolutionary design featured concentric walls and advanced defenses, making it one of Europe’s most formidable castles.
🔥 The Fall of a Mighty Fortress
Despite its strength, Château-Gaillard fell in 1204 after a six-month siege by Philip Augustus. This marked the beginning of the end for English rule in Normandy, as the region was absorbed into France.
🌿 Les Andelys: A Picturesque Medieval Town
While Château-Gaillard is the star attraction, the charming town of Les Andelys offers more:
- Petit Andely 🏡: Quaint riverside houses & the stunning Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame.
- Grand Andely 🛶: A lively hub with cafés, shops, and the Saint-Sauveur Church.
- Scenic Hikes 🥾: Trails leading to breathtaking views of the Seine Valley.
✨ Why Visit Today?
- History Buffs 🏛️: Walk in the footsteps of kings and knights.
- Nature Lovers 🌄: Stunning panoramas from the castle ruins.
- Photographers 📸: Capture the dramatic cliffs and river bends.
🚀 Plan Your Visit
📍 Location: Les Andelys, Normandy, France
🎟️ Entry Fee: Please see website nouvelle-normandie-tourisme.com > chateau-gaillard
⏰ Opening Hours: Seasonal—check ahead!
🌐 Official & Local Information
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Municipalité des Andelys – Château‑Gaillard
The town’s official site offers detailed history, visitor info, opening hours, and ticket prices.
▶️ Link: ville‑andelys.fr › Château‑Gaillard -
Normandie Tourisme – Château Gaillard (EN)
A tourist-focused page in English highlighting the fortress’s architecture and visitor tips.
▶️ Link: normandie-tourisme.fr › Château‑Gaillard -
Every Castle – Château Gaillard Visitor Info
Includes opening times, ticket details, and fascinating architectural insights.
▶️ Link: everycastle.com › Château‑Gaillard
🏙️ General Info & Travel Guides
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France‑Voyage.com – Guide to Les Andelys
A helpful travel guide covering Château‑Gaillard, town sights, events, and local accommodation. france-voyage.com -
Wikipedia – Château Gaillard
Comprehensive historical overview including construction, sieges, and conservation. wikipedia.org
📌 Tourism Office
For planning your visit, booking guided tours, or finding local maps:
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**Office de Tourisme Nouvelle Normandie – Les Andelys**
Address: 2 rue Grande, 27700 Les Andelys
They provide multilingual guidance, tickets, and local activity info. nouvelle-normandie-tourisme.com
