Chateau de Meung-sur-loire

The Château de Meung-sur-Loire, nicknamed the "Château with Two Faces," is one of the largest and oldest châteaux in the Loire Valley. A former prestigious residence of the Bishops of Orléans, it boasts a fascinating architecture that reflects its eventful history: on one side, a defensive medieval façade with its imposing 13th-century towers, and on the other, an elegant 18th-century classical façade, reflecting its transformation into a pleasure residence. Inside, the visit is distinguished by its lively and immersive atmosphere. Unlike other châteaux that can sometimes feel a bit static, Meung-sur-Loire invites visitors to explore daily life through the ages, from the sumptuous reception rooms to the kitchens equipped with an impressive collection of period objects. The highlight of the visit remains its dungeons, which served as a prison and where, notably, the poet François Villon was incarcerated, offering a striking contrast to the luxury of the upper floors.