Châteaudun, Medieval castle complex at Haute Vallée du Loir, France.
Châteaudun is a French commune situated on a limestone promontory above the Loir River, with buildings arranged in streets that follow the terrain. The castle rises prominently from this elevated position and defines the town's distinctive outline.
The settlement began as the Roman Castrodunum in antiquity and later became the capital of Dunois County during the Middle Ages. The castle was expanded and modified over several centuries, creating the layered structure visitors see today.
The castle dominates the townscape and serves as the focal point for locals, who live with this monument as part of their daily surroundings. People are aware of their town's historical role and the building shapes how residents and visitors experience the place.
The town sits at the intersection of routes connecting Chartres, Blois, Le Mans, and Orleans, and lies around 130 kilometers from Paris. The streets follow steep slopes up to the castle, so comfortable footwear and a steady pace are recommended when exploring on foot.
The castle contains one of only eleven religious chapels of its specific design constructed across France, a remarkable architectural feature. This chapel is notable for its refined craftsmanship and remains one of the finest examples of its kind.
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