Chateau Gaillon
Chateau Gaillon
20 Members like this place
About Chateau Gaillon
Add to favoritesThe First Renaissance Palace in France Perched on a cliff overlooking the Seine Valley, the Château de Gaillon is an exceptional site that embodies the birth of the French Renaissance. Built on the foundations of a medieval fortress at the behest of Cardinal Georges d'Amboise, minister to Louis XII, it was transformed into a sumptuous palace as early as 1502. Long before the Loire Valley châteaux, Gaillon introduced Italian refinement to France, boldly blending flamboyant Gothic structures with sculpted decorations inspired by antiquity. Stripped of some of its ornamentation after the French Revolution, the château nevertheless retains spectacular vestiges that bear witness to its splendor, such as the majestic Genoa Gate. Its eventful history, from a prestigious residence of the Archbishops of Rouen to a prison in the 19th century, has left unique architectural traces. Now in full renaissance, the monument invites a fascinating stroll between its light stone pavilions and its gardens which are gradually regaining their former splendor.
Tip for an even more exceptional visit.
To fully appreciate the exquisite details of Gaillon, be sure to linger over the courtyard. Many original elements (sculptures, medallions) were transferred to the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris or the Louvre for safekeeping during the Revolution; the site now offers reconstructions and interpretive displays that allow visitors to "visualize" these missing masterpieces. Also, check the schedule of themed guided tours: they are essential for accessing the castle's most secluded areas and understanding the graffiti left by former prisoners.
2 Key Dates
-
square_foot
1192
Construction has begun.
-
square_foot
1504
Cardinal Georges d'Amboise had the first French château built entirely according to the aesthetic principles of the Italian Renaissance.
The stories of your visits (en-US)
Submit your review.
LE CHATEAU BOULAY-MORIN
CHATEAU VILLIERS-LE-MAHIEU
DOMAINE DU BOSC ROGER
PAVILLON HENRI 4
CASTEL MAINTENON
AUBERGE DU JEU DE PAUME
LE MANOIR DE LA POTERIE
DOMAINE SAINT ANGE
