Château Gaillard, Medieval castle in Les Andelys, France
The stone fortress stands atop limestone cliffs along the Seine River, featuring three concentric walls and multiple defensive towers throughout its structure.
Richard I of England constructed this stronghold in 1197 to protect Normandy from French invasion, employing advanced military architecture inspired by crusader castles.
The castle represents a significant example of medieval military engineering, incorporating defensive innovations that influenced subsequent European fortification designs.
Visitors can access the castle ruins daily from April through September, with guided tours available in French and English at scheduled times.
The castle's inner bailey contains a rare dodecagonal keep with walls measuring three meters thick, demonstrating advanced construction techniques of the period.
Location: Les Andelys
Inception: 1197
Architectural style: medieval architecture
Address: Le Petit-Andely
Website: https://nouvelle-normandie-tourisme.com/a-vivre-nouvelle-normandie/chateau-gaillard-le-medieval
GPS coordinates: 49.23813,1.40275
Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:36
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Historical structures in France range from Roman amphitheaters to modern bridges. The buildings display engineering and architectural techniques through multiple periods. Monuments include Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance castles, medieval fortresses, Roman bridges, and contemporary architectural designs. These constructions represent significant periods in French history and architecture.
The castles near Paris display French history through their architecture, gardens and interiors. These buildings served as residences for kings, emperors and nobles. Each castle presents a distinct period, from medieval fortresses to Renaissance palaces. The collections include furniture, artworks and historical artifacts.
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Pont suspendu des Andelys
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Musée Nicolas-Poussin
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Enceinte du Grand-Andely
1.6 kmReviews
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