Samois Tower, Abandoned observation tower in Samois-sur-Seine, France
Description
Samois Tower is an abandoned observation structure built from stone, rising approximately 117 meters high on a rocky outcrop above the Seine River. The building displays neo-medieval and eclectic architectural features combined in a distinctive form that stands out from the surrounding forest landscape.
History
Built in 1880 by architect Isidore Hébert, this tower originally served as a key geodetic survey site for measuring and mapping the region. The structure gradually fell into disuse during the 20th century and remains abandoned today.
Culture
The tower represents the late 19th-century French architectural movement that combined traditional stone construction methods with modern observation purposes.
Practical
The tower remains closed to visitors due to deterioration and can only be viewed from distant vantage points within the surrounding forest. The surrounding terrain is accessible, allowing visitors to see and photograph the structure from the outside.
Did you know?
The tower was designed with neo-medieval elements despite being built in the late 19th century, making it an unusual blend of historical styles. This deliberate architectural choice reflected the arts and crafts movement of the era, which reinvented traditional forms.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Samois-sur-Seine).
Denecourt tower
2.3 km
Castle of Bellefontaine
3 km
Île de loisirs de Bois-le-Roi
3.8 km
Barbeau Abbey
3 km
Maison de Mallarmé
2.3 km
Prieuré des Basses-Loges d'Avon
3.6 km
Valvins Bridge
2.5 km
Villa of Les Fontaines-Dieu
944 m
Berceau Island
1 km
Castle of Les Fougères
3.4 km
Isabelle Fountain
3.8 km
Église Saint-Hilaire
721 m
Saint Peter Church of Bois-le-Roi
3.8 km
Saint Genevieve Church of Héricy
1.8 km
Ferme du Bas-Samoreau
3.3 km
Saint Peter Church of Samoreau
3.2 km
Saint Eligius Church of Vulaines-sur-Seine
2.7 km
Grange aux Dîmes
3.3 km
Wash house of Samois-sur-Seine
833 m
Waschhaus
4 km
Manoir de la Voûte
714 m
Town hall of Samois-sur-Seine
586 m
Town hall of Vulaines-sur-Seine
2.8 km
Maison de Stéphane Mallarmé
2.3 km
War memorial of Vulaines-sur-Seine
2.8 km
Chapelle de l'Hôtel-Dieu de Samois-sur-Seine
482 m
Victor Bridge
2.4 km
Arbre de mai Samoreau-Bernried
3.3 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