Castles around Saint-Sauveur-En-Puisaye offer insights into the region's rich historical and cultural heritage. The area features notable historical structures, including the Château de Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye and the ancient Tour Sarrasine, which reflect centuries of architectural evolution. These sites provide a glimpse into medieval and later periods, showcasing the region's past. The landscape is characterized by its historical significance, with various fortified structures and castles dotting the area.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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Tours and events: https://www.chateau-de-st-fargeau.com
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Simply a great idea that is being put into practice here. Come by before the construction work is finished. In addition to the normal day-to-day construction work, there are also always interesting special offers. The bread baked here is pretty tasty and is sold.
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Price 2024 €16 adult €15 students - a must do, unforgettable experience.
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An unmissable experience is visiting this castle, the construction of which began in 1999 using medieval techniques. You visit a construction site (now well advanced), chat with the workers from the different trades who explain everything to you, visit the vegetable garden, the basket maker, the baker, the potter, the herbalist, etc… I highly recommend visiting this castle !
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A true medieval fortress built on 11th century foundations, completed in the 13th century, then partly transformed during the Renaissance. The four corner towers, the two entrance towers defending the drawbridge, the moat and the dovecote surround the charming square interior courtyard. Since 1951, the pottery workshop, exhibitions, shows and courses have made Ratilly a leading art center. Hours: From 03/30/24 to 06/30/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Closed on: Friday From 07/01/23 to 08/31/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. From 01/09/24 to 10/11/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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Château de la Motte-Mitton in Toucy During the 100 Years' War, Toucy was burned and razed (1423). In the 16th century, a new castle was built outside the walls by Aymard de Prie at a place called Motte Miton. The latter was replaced in the 18th century by the current castle attributed to the Marquis de la Perratière (long main building framed on one side by round towers topped with lanterns and on the other by square pavilions). You can still see the remains of the 16th century building (bases of the towers). https://www.guide-tourisme-france.com/VISIT/chateau-motte-mitton--toucy-17692.htm The castle cannot be visited. But there are other properties to admire along the avenue.
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The project is a sensation and has now also gained respect from experts due to its scientific approach. Almost all of the materials used come from the land on which the castle is being built. Tools and techniques from the 13th century are used in the construction. The corresponding workshops are located around the castle. For example, the smithy, the dyeing works, the quarry with stonemason's hut, etc. Horses for the carriages are kept in reconstructed stables. Fences, stairs and bridges were built largely without modern materials. At the various workshops there are display boards with the tools used there. Most of the time people are working there and you can ask questions. Demonstrations are held from time to time. For example, you can watch how a rope is made or how a wooden shingle is made. Outside of school holidays, the site is visited by many school classes. But don't worry, the site is large and the crowds are well distributed. In addition, school groups are taught about the techniques used at the time in the many shelters scattered around. This means you can always find a place where you can look around almost alone. Depending on the season, one to three restaurants are open on the site. There is also plenty of space to eat there, or to eat the snacks you brought with you. There is also a large, sheltered picnic area by the car park. You can leave the site at any time if you get a stamp at the exit. In the afternoon, you reach the water mill, which was also built according to the model of the time, via a forest path about 500 metres long. The castle should be finished in 2023. Construction was still underway in June 2023, but there is already a lot to see. The chapel with murals and stained glass windows, the kitchen with bakery, the large hall, the gentlemen's room in the keep, etc. A visit is highly recommended. The €15 per person (as of 2023) is definitely worth it. Also because you can easily spend a whole day here.
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The well-preserved ensemble from the second half of the 13th century is a four-wing structure around an almost square inner courtyard, which is surrounded at the corners by four mighty round towers and is accessed on the south side via a portal flanked by similar towers. The buildings are surrounded all around by a now dry moat. Despite a variety of later structural measures, especially the post-medieval changes to the southern defensive buildings into homely refuges with open window fronts in the style of a castle, they have hardly lost any of the former fortified character of a castle complex. The historic castle is now a cultural center, a place where numerous concerts take place every summer and contemporary artists exhibit. In 2015 the facility had over 12,200 visitors. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Ratilly
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Yes, several castles in the region are great for families. Guédelon Castle is an experimental archaeology project where you can see a medieval castle being built using 13th-century techniques, which is very engaging for all ages. Château de Saint-Fargeau, with its impressive pentagonal design and six massive towers, often hosts historical sound and light shows that are popular with families. Château de Ratilly also offers a family-friendly atmosphere with its art exhibitions and pottery workshops.
The castles offer a deep dive into the region's history. The Château de Saint-Fargeau has origins dating back to the 10th century, showcasing centuries of architectural evolution and the influence of figures like Jacques Coeur and Antoine de Chabannes. The Château de Ratilly, a 13th-century fortress transformed during the Renaissance, provides a glimpse into medieval defensive architecture and later artistic adaptations. Additionally, the Tour Sarrasine (Saracen Tower) in Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye is an 11th-century ovoid keep, offering a unique example of medieval military architecture and its strategic importance.
Absolutely. The region around Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, including loops around the Tour Sarrasine and near Guédelon Castle. For cycling, there are routes like the 'Guédelon and Lac du Bourdon Loop' or paths leading to Saint-Fargeau Castle. Mountain biking trails are also available, with options around Lac du Bourdon and near Château de Ratilly. You can explore more routes in our guides for hiking, cycling, and MTB trails around Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye.
Guédelon Castle is a one-of-a-kind experimental archaeology project. Since 1997, a 13th-century castle has been under construction using only authentic medieval tools and techniques. Visitors can observe craftsmen at work, rediscovering lost knowledge about castle building, material use, and construction methods. It's an active, living history site rather than a preserved ruin.
Yes, the Château de Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye is primarily known for housing the Musée Colette, dedicated to the celebrated French novelist born in the town. It offers an inventive exploration of her life and works. The Tour Sarrasine, an impressive 11th-century ovoid keep, is a significant historical monument offering a glimpse into the region's medieval past with its unique architectural design.
The castles offer diverse cultural experiences. The Château de Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye hosts the Musée Colette, celebrating the life and work of the famous novelist. Château de Ratilly functions as a vibrant cultural center, hosting contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, and pottery workshops. Château de Saint-Fargeau is known for its historical sound and light shows, bringing its rich past to life.
The best time to visit generally depends on the specific castle and your preferences. Many castles, like Château de Ratilly, have extended opening hours during the summer months (July and August) and may host special events or concerts. Spring and early autumn also offer pleasant weather for exploring the grounds and surrounding areas. It's always advisable to check the individual castle's website for their most current opening times and event schedules.
While popular sites like Guédelon Castle can attract many visitors, exploring the Tour Sarrasine in Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye might offer a more tranquil experience, focusing on its unique architecture and historical significance. Château de Ratilly, while a cultural center, often provides a serene setting for appreciating art and history away from larger crowds, especially during off-peak hours.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as you'll likely be exploring extensive grounds, courtyards, and potentially uneven surfaces within the castles. Layers of clothing are also a good idea, as temperatures can vary between indoor and outdoor areas, and the weather can change. If you plan to combine your visit with hiking or cycling, dress appropriately for those activities.
Visitors frequently appreciate the unique blend of history and active engagement. The experimental archaeology at Guédelon Castle is a major draw, allowing a hands-on understanding of medieval construction. The well-preserved architecture and cultural vibrancy of places like Château de Ratilly, with its art and concerts, are also highly valued. The sheer historical depth and impressive scale of castles like Château de Saint-Fargeau also leave a lasting impression.
Yes, some historical structures in the region are not publicly accessible. For example, the Château de la Motte-Mitton in Toucy, while historically significant, cannot be visited internally. However, you can still admire its exterior and the surrounding properties along the avenue.


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