Château de Gaillon
About Château de Gaillon
The Château de Gaillon is recognized as the very first Renaissance château in France, predating even the famous Loire Valley castles. Built between 1498 and 1510 by Cardinal Georges d'Amboise, Archbishop of Rouen and First Minister to King Louis XII, the château introduced Italian Renaissance architecture to France after the Cardinal's diplomatic missions to Northern Italy where he met Leonardo da Vinci. The site features a blend of Gothic and Italian Renaissance elements, with the original gardens designed by Italian landscape architect Pacello da Mercogliano and later redesigned by André Le Nôtre. Visitors can explore the historic entrance pavilion, the Galerie des Cerfs, and learn about the château's fascinating transformation from royal residence to prison (1812-1946) through guided tours lasting about 75 minutes. The château is currently undergoing major restoration as part of the 'Gaillon Renaissances' project, offering unique opportunities to witness conservation work in progress. In 2025, the château celebrates its millennium anniversary with special events and exhibitions. The site is located about one hour from Paris and 30 minutes from Rouen, making it an excellent day trip destination.
Interesting Facts
The famous fountain at Gaillon was commissioned on September 14, 1506 from Genoese sculptors Agostino Solari, Antonio della Porta, and Pace Gazini. It was a gift from the Republic of Venice to Cardinal d'Amboise and was considered the most beautiful fountain in France at the time. Today, pieces of this Renaissance masterpiece can be found in museums including the Louvre.
Cardinal Georges d'Amboise employed an astonishing 1,800 workers over 10 years to build the château. Contemporary Italian visitors described it as 'the most beautiful and superb place in all of France' - high praise considering the Italians were the masters of Renaissance architecture at the time.
During World War II and beyond, the château served as a prison from 1812 until as recently as 1946. Some of the prison-era features, including cells and administrative areas, can still be seen during guided tours, offering a stark contrast to its original royal grandeur.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Guided Tour
RecommendedSelf-Guided Tour
Family Package
Family TicketSpecial rate for families with multiple children
Location & Practical Info
Address
4 rue verte, 27600 Gaillon, France
Website
https://chateaudegaillon.frDay Routes
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