Visit Paris' Charming Chateaus for Fascinating French History

Paris contains a number of castles with lengthy and intriguing histories.With Paris' long and tumultuous history, it is no surprise that the French capital contains some architecturally magnificent landmarks immersed in its fascinating past.

Paris contains a number of castles with lengthy and intriguing histories.With Paris' long and tumultuous history, it is no surprise that the French capital contains some architecturally magnificent landmarks immersed in its fascinating past.

The Chateau du Pierrefonds is one such attraction, with its unique structure illustrating how it has been subject to the whims of kings over the centuries. A castle was originally built on the site during the 12th century, before being re-built two centuries later by King Charles VI's brother Louis, Duke of Orleans, who employed court architect Jean le Noir to carry out this task. However, during the rocky days early on in the reign of Louis XIII, the castle was besieged by troops sent by the secretary of state Richelieu. Its demolition was begun, but the sheer enormity of the castle meant this was never complete, although the exterior works were razed, the roofs destroyed and holes bashed in the towers and curtain walls.

Napoleon I bought the castle cheaply in 1810, and thanks to the 19th century appreciation of the architectural heritage of the Middle Ages, the castle became known as a romantic ruin, and it featured in several works by famous artists. It was then restored by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1857, and is often cited as the greatest work of famed designer Viollet le Duc, but the picturesque ruins were kept. Located near the luscious Compiegne forest, the imposing castle is an awe-inspiring place to visit, and is set in especially spectacular grounds, which visitors are free to enjoy.

Another castle which has been intertwined with French history throughout its lifespan is the Chateau de Vincennes, which started out as a humble hunting lodge, built for Louis VII in around 1150. Its appearance is especially fortress-like, although it has also seen some more personal historical events among royalty, providing the imposing location for the marriages of kings Philippe III in 1274 and Philippe IV in 1284, with three 14th century kings being born there - Louis X, Philippe V and Charles IV. Interestingly, Henri IV was imprisoned in the castle during the Wars of Religion.

The Chateau de Vincennes really is something to behold, encompassing a famous donjon tower which stands at 52 metres high, being the tallest fortified medieval structure in Europe. This tower is a great example of how various monarchs have contributed to the building over the years, being added by Philip VI around 1337. As the scene of many bloody battles conducted against the ostentatious backdrop, there is little surprise that the fortress contains a number of defensive measures including six towers and three gates, which are each 42 metres high.

In 1860, Napoleon III dedicated the chateau to France as a public park, but even since then it has been present in horrendous events, being the scene of the murder of 30 hostages during the Nazi occupation and the site of the execution of exotic dancer and accused spy Mata Hari in 1917.

History fans seeking things to do in Paris will also enjoy a visit to the Chateau de Maisons-Laffitte, which provides an example of the later French architectural style of baroque. The building was designed and constructed between 1630 and 1651, and is often used as a reference point when it comes to French architecture - making it a must-see for any architectural enthusiast visiting the city. As with many such monuments, the stunning chateau was seized during the French Revolution as national goods.

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