Château de Gisors
About Château de Gisors
The Château de Gisors is a magnificent 11th-century Norman fortress perched atop one of Europe's largest artificial mounds, standing 30 meters high. Built in 1097 by William II of England and later expanded by Henry I, the castle features an impressive octagonal stone keep that remains one of the best-preserved shell keeps in France. The fortress served as a crucial defensive stronghold on the frontier between English Normandy and the French royal domain, witnessing centuries of Anglo-French conflicts. Visitors can explore the four-story keep, underground cellars, and the mysterious Prisoner's Tower adorned with medieval graffiti from imprisoned Knights Templar. The castle is famous for its legendary connection to the Templars, as Grand Master Jacques de Molay was imprisoned here before his execution in 1314. Interior visits are by guided tour only, with over 300 steps to climb throughout the complex - comfortable walking shoes are essential. The surrounding 3-hectare park offers free access and panoramic views of the medieval town of Gisors.
Interesting Facts
In 1946, the castle's former guide Roger Lhomoy claimed to have discovered a hidden underground chapel containing 19 stone sarcophagi and 30 chests of treasure after secretly digging beneath the fortress. His sensational claim prompted French Culture Minister André Malraux to order a military excavation in the 1960s, but nothing was ever found - the treasure hunt even damaged some of the castle's ancient ruins.
The castle's massive artificial mound was constructed using an ingenious medieval technique: workers piled earth in layers, compacting each level before adding the next. The resulting 30-meter-high motte required moving approximately 20,000 cubic meters of soil by hand - an undertaking that would have taken hundreds of laborers several years to complete.
The mysterious Prisoner's Tower contains medieval graffiti that some historians believe depicts Templar knights loading treasure onto ships bound for La Rochelle. While experts debate whether these carvings are genuine Templar messages or later medieval additions, they have fueled centuries of treasure hunting speculation and continue to attract mystery enthusiasts from around the world.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Guided Tour
RecommendedIncludes access to the octagonal keep and underground cellars. Tours available April-September daily except Tuesday. Maximum 18 visitors per tour.
Location & Practical Info
Address
Quai Fossé aux Tanneurs, 27140 Gisors, France
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