Château du Bellay, Medieval castle in Allonnes, France
Description
Château du Bellay is a castle in Allonnes that blends Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles with towers and fortified walls. The structure sits on elevated ground with a commanding view over the Loire Valley from its position.
History
The castle was built between the 16th and early 19th centuries under the design of architect François-Léonard Seheult. During World War II it served as a military position and came under German military control.
Culture
The castle was the family seat of the du Bellays, who produced multiple bishops and the poet Joachim du Bellay. The name and character of the place remain tied to this family's long presence in the region.
Practical
The castle is private property owned by descendants of the Contades family and is not open to casual visitors. You will need a special invitation to access the grounds.
Did you know?
During World War II, German General Kurt Feldt requisitioned the castle as part of military operations in the Loire region. This wartime episode tied the castle to the defensive struggles that played out across the valley.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Allonnes).
Pont Cessart
9.2 km
Église Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers de Saumur
9.2 km
Pont du Cadre Noir
9.2 km
Château de La Coutancière
3.7 km
Pont des Cadets de Saumur
8.6 km
Église Notre-Dame de Vernantes
9.2 km
Couvent Notre-Dame des Ardilliers
9.2 kmManoir de la Vignolle
8.9 kmÉglise Notre-Dame de Blou
6.8 km
Église Saint-Maurice de Souzay-Champigny
9.1 km
Église Saint-Paul de Vivy
5.7 km
Église Saint-Martin-de-Vertou de Varennes-sur-Loire
8.9 km
Église Saint-Vincent de Vernoil-le-Fourrier
9.2 km
Prieuré de Vernoil-le-Fourrier
9.2 km
Moulins à vent du Champ des Îles
8.7 km
Maison de la Reine de Sicile de Saumur
9 km
Église Saint-Nicolas de Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil
8.7 km
Église Saint-Pierre de Dampierre-sur-Loire
8.8 km
Église de la Visitation de Saumur
9 km
Église Saint-Maurille de Brain-sur-Allonnes
3.8 km
Église Saint-Médard de Neuillé
5.2 km
Église Saint-Doucelin d'Allonnes
2.5 km
Église Notre-Dame de Vernantes
9.1 km
Église Saint-Étienne de La Breille-les-Pins
5.3 km
Pont ferroviaire de Saumur
8.8 km
Croix Bourdon
8.3 km
Maisons de la Fontaine
9.3 km
Chapelle Sainte-Jeanne-Delanoue de Saumur
9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes