Chateau de Villers-cotteret

Located in the heart of the Retz forest, this Renaissance gem was built starting in 1532 by Francis I, who made it one of his favorite hunting lodges. The monument entered the annals of history in 1539, when the king signed the famous Ordinance of Villers-Cotterêts there, mandating the use of French in all administrative and legal documents, replacing Latin. Its architecture, though marked by the centuries and its various functions (a workhouse and later a retirement home), preserves exceptional sculpted treasures, notably its grand staircase and chapel, adorned with salamanders and fleurs-de-lis. Since its monumental restoration, completed in 2023, the château has become the International City of the French Language. More than just a museum, it is a vibrant cultural center offering an immersive and engaging journey through the adventure of words. There you will discover a "magical library," interactive games on etymology and the evolution of the French language around the world. The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the Cour du Jeu de Paume, now covered by a contemporary glass roof featuring a "sky of words" where terms from all French-speaking countries float.