Château de Vincennes

The Château de Vincennes is an imposing 13th-century fortress that has stood at the heart of French history since its construction.

Entry into Château de Vincennes with The Paris Pass®

• You can visit this attraction with the digital Paris Museum Pass. Please download it before you visit!
• Pay nothing at the door – simply show your pass.
• Explore a unique 14th and 17th-century French location in the heart of Vincennes.
• Learn about the château's architecture and functions as well as stories from gruesome battles throughout its history.

Over the years this Paris sight has served as a prison, a fortress, and the site of numerous royal births, marriages, and executions.

It was built around 1150 as a hunting lodge for Louis VII, allowing him access to the nearby forest of Vincennes. The Château was considerably expanded by Louis IX who would soon depart from Vincennes on the crusade where he would meet his death.

About Château de Vincennes

The Château de Vincennes’s famous donjon tower, at 52m high, is the tallest fortified medieval structure in Europe. It was added by Philip VI of France around 1337. The grand rectangular circuit of walls, measuring more than a kilometer in length with six towers and three gates, each 42m high, was completed over the next hundred years. This done, the Château de Vincennes became one of the most formidable fortresses in all of France and the scene of numerous bloody battles.

There is also much royal history in Vincennes, France. Philippe III and Philippe IV were both married here and three 14th-century kings were born at Vincennes: Louis X, Philippe V and Charles IV. Henri IV was imprisoned at Vincennes during the Wars of Religion.

Discover the Timeless Splendor of Château de Vincennes
The Château was all but abandoned in the 18th century, briefly becoming the site of the Vincennes porcelain manufactory. It then served as a state prison, which housed the marquis de Sade, Diderot, and Mirabeau, and in 1796 it became an arms manufactory.

In 1860, Napoleon III, having restored the keep and the chapel, gave the château to Paris as a public park. Today it stands as a reminder of the many dark and bloody battles France has had to endure and the grandeur in which they unfolded. It is surely a sight not to be missed while planning a trip with The Paris Pass.

FAQs

Q. What is the Château de Vincennes?
A. Château de Vincennes has a long history that dates back to the 14th century, serving as a royal residence, fortress, and even a prison.

Q. Can I explore the interior of the castle?
A. Yes, visitors have the opportunity to explore the interior of the castle and discover its fascinating architecture and historical significance.

Q. Are there any notable attractions within the Château de Vincennes?
A. Absolutely! The Château de Vincennes houses a stunning Sainte-Chapelle chapel and a magnificent 52-meter-high keep, which is the tallest medieval fortified structure in Europe.

Q. Is there a museum within the Château de Vincennes?
A. While there is no museum within the castle itself, it is often used as a venue for temporary exhibitions and cultural events, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Q. Can I enjoy outdoor activities in the Château de Vincennes?
A. Certainly! The château is surrounded by a beautiful park where you can take leisurely walks, have a picnic, or simply relax amidst the lush greenery.

Q. Are there any guided tours available at Château de Vincennes?
A. Yes, guided tours are offered at Château de Vincennes, providing visitors with expert insights into the castle's history, architecture, and intriguing stories that bring the past to life.