Château Gaillard (Gaillard Castle)

Château Gaillard is a magnificent medieval fortress built by King Richard I "the Lionheart" of England in just two years (1196-1198) to protect Normandy from the French King Philippe Auguste. Perched dramatically on a rocky cliff overlooking the Seine River, the castle represents the pinnacle of late 12th-century military architecture with its revolutionary scalloped curtain walls and unique almond-shaped keep featuring 5-meter thick walls. The ruins offer spectacular panoramic views of one of the most beautiful bends of the Seine and the charming town of Les Andelys below. Visitors can explore the three distinct defensive sections: the outer courtyards (free access year-round) and the inner castle with its impressive donjon (ticketed, open late March to early November). The castle is open Wednesday through Sunday, with guided tours available including English-language tours on Saturdays. Note that the site requires a steep climb and sturdy footwear - the terrain is rocky and uneven. Summer months offer medieval camps, falconry demonstrations, and extended visiting hours.