Loches

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Shortened history of the castle:

Designed and occupied by Henry II of England and his son, Richard the Lionheart during the 12th century, the castle withstood the assaults of the French king Philip II during the wars for the control of France. It was finally captured by King Philip II in 1205. Construction work immediately upgraded Loches into a huge military fortress.

The castle became the favorite residence of Charles VII of France who gave it to his mistress, Agnès Sorel. It was then converted into a State prison by his son, King Louis XI who had lived there as a child but preferred the royal castle of Amboise.

During the American Revolution, France financed and fought with the Americans against England and King Louis XVI used the castle of Loches as a prison for captured Englishmen.

At the time of the French Revolution, the château was ransacked and severely damaged. Some major restoration began in 1806 but today there are parts visible as ruins only.

Château de Loches has been recognised as a monument historique since 1861 and is listed by the French Ministry of Culture.

Opening times and additional information:

Open all year except 25th of December and 1st of January.

From 2nd of January to 31 of March : 9.30am - 5pm
From 1st of April to 30th of September : 9am - 7pm
From 1st of October to 31st of December : 9.30am - 5pm