Jeu de paume, Historical sports facility in Chinon, France
Jeu de paume in Chinon is a 16th-century court building constructed for real tennis and built with local tuffeau stone. It features eight roof trusses supporting a slate roof and maintains its original interior structure with a spectator gallery.
The building was constructed in 1587 as a court for real tennis and later served as a saltpeter workshop, riding arena, and carriage storage facility. This shifting use reflects how buildings adapt to different needs as society and its priorities change over time.
The building preserves its original interior with terracotta tiles and a spectator gallery, reflecting how real tennis was an important social activity for wealthy people in Renaissance times. These elements show what mattered to people then and how they spent their leisure hours.
The building is located on Rue du Jeu-de-Paume and is undergoing restoration work following its registration as a historical monument. Visitors should be aware that interior access may be limited, and checking local information about visiting hours before arriving is advisable.
It remains the last surviving court among five historical courts dedicated to real tennis in Chinon, preserving a rare piece of sports history. Few places in France can still show such an authentic example of this particular game.
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