Top 5 French Castles To Visit

Gaul of the ancient world, ruled by warrior tribes called the Franks, within a few centuries, transformed into the most beautiful country in the world. France has been a nation of saints, an elite center for knowledge and flourished with distinguished art and literature in The Renaissance. This beautiful nation as adorned with historical castles, forts, cathedrals, churches, libraries and other architecture.

However, the uniqueness of the beauty of French architecture in its forts and castles, distinguish her from all other nations. If you’re looking for flights to France, I would suggest you to go through the Air France Airlines website. Now, coming back to the magnificent castles in France, and their history.  

The first and the foremost among these castles, is Chateau De Foix. This magnificent castle was basically built in the year 987 A.D. This was home to the Cathars. In the year, 1034 A.D., the castle became the capital of Foix (which is a county) and played an important role in the military history of the mediaeval history.  The following centuries beheld the towers being incessantly added. This was to fortify the castle and to keep it safe and so that it could be under a strong keep. The towers served as prison until 1862 A.D. Since 1840, the castle has been listed under historical monument.

Secondly, located in the rocky hill, between the valleys of the Thèze and Lémance Rivers; lies

Bonaguil (Périgord) castle. The castle was built in the 13th century, by Bérenger de Roquefeuil; who felt the need to erect an exquisite castle using the most up to date protective measures to protect against an unexpected enemy who never arrived. After the French Revolution, the castle became a national property, and the Revolution caused damage the castle, as it did to many other castles. Much of its carpentry and roofing was ruined, and the towers were left damaged and reduced in height. However, since 1862 however Bonaguil (Périgord) castle has been a referred to as a National Monument and has been maintened and restored.

Today, it is one of the most extraordinary and reminiscent ruins of the castle in France. One of the unforeseen features that make Bonaguil attractive is the graffiti that has been exposed at the castle.

Thirdly, located atop a steep rocky edge, at almost 800 meters above sea level, lies The Château de Peyrepertuse. The castle is one of the famous Cathar castles. The Castle belonged at first, to the Peyrepertuse Family, but later in the late 12th century; passed in to the hands of the French monarchy. Until the French Revolution in 1789, the Castle housed a small garrison of army. After the Revolution the castle was vacated. It receives about 100 000 visitors per year; and has become an exquisite tourist spot.

The castle ruins expand to a length of roughly 300 meters with the best part of the perimeter being unswervingly above steep cliffs. Considerable amounts of the walls and towers are still in one piece; such as; certain parts of the donjon, a few of the rooms and the chapel. You may visit the castle throughout the year; except for January. The cost of entrance is 9 Euros for an adult in July & August, 6.50 Euros the rest of the year. Children under 15 years of age, are to pay 3.50 Euros.

Fourth, which was built in the 10th or 11th century, belonged to Barcelona , which was transferred to Aragon and finally, to Narbonne by the end of the 12th century. During the crusade against the Cathars; the castle was home to Chabert de Barbaira, a knight who supported the Cathars, and who helped the Cathars to take refuge while escaping persecution.  After The French Revolution in 1879, The Castle fell into ruins.

Entry costs for an adult is 6 Euros and children is 3.50 Euros. The Castle is open throughout the year except for January.

Fifth and finally, Palace of Versailles; which was primarily a hunting lodge and a private retreat for King Louis XIII, who reigned from 1610 to 1643; and his family. In the year 1624, the king handed over Jacques Lemercier to the construct a château on the location. Its ramparts are conserved today as the external fascia which overlooks the Marble Court. The most visited places in the palace being, the Hall of Mirrors, princes du sang, fountain of Apollo etc. The fees for entrance and sightseeing within the Palace are: Palace €13, palaces of Trianon and Marie-Antoinette's estate €6.

The best time to visit France is during April to June or September to November, when its more comfortable and you might find great discounts on Air France. However, it is always good to visit France, since it is beautiful throughout the year.

Moreover, if you’re planning a trip to France now, you could click on the airline website and look up to some of the most unique offers on the tickets. Also, do not forget to check out the Air France baggage and online check-in facilities to make your flight smooth. Bonjour Mon Ami!!!!