Château des ducs de La Trémoille

The site's origins date back to 762, when an initial motte was destroyed by Pepin the Younger. In the Middle Ages, a castle was built on this spot, playing an important role in the defense of Thouars during the Hundred Years' War and conquered by Bertrand du Guesclin in 1372. The Viscounty of Thouars later fell into the hands of the La Trémoille family, who owned it until the French Revolution. In the early 17th century, Marie de La Tour d’Auvergne, Duchess of Thouars, initiated a comprehensive reconstruction, finding the medieval castle uncomfortable. Following plans by architect Jacques Lemercier, a magnificent castle with a facade over 110 meters long was built starting in 1638, becoming one of the most significant structures of its time. After the Revolution, the castle was plundered and served various purposes, including as a barracks, prison, and educational institution.

The castle is located in Thouars, in the Deux-Sèvres department, in the Poitou-Charentes region of France. It stands at an elevation of approximately 71 meters above sea level.

Today, the castle is accessible to visitors and can be explored. It continues to house the Collège Marie de La Tour d’Auvergne, as well as the municipal school of fine arts, the regional center “Résistance et Liberté,” and the Centre d’interprétation géologique du Thouarsais.

• Château du Bois de Sanzay (castle), approx. 10.7 km away
• Château d'Oiron (castle), approx. 10.8 km away
• Château de Curçay-sur-Dive (castle), approx. 13.1 km away
• Château de Ternay (castle), approx. 15.3 km away