The castle's roof structure is composed of approximately 200,000 tiles and requires specific maintenance due to its massive oak framework.
La Grande Mademoiselle, a cousin of Louis XIV, was exiled to this castle by the King, during which time she authored her famous memoirs.
The fortress originally featured a moat and drawbridge system, remnants of which remain visible in the current landscape.
The historical pageant held here is one of the largest of its kind in Europe, spanning over 1,000 years of local history.
The brick construction is unique in the region, which typically favors limestone or sandstone materials for noble estates.
The Castle of Saint-Fargeau is a 15th-century brick fortress located in the Yonne department of Burgundy. It is historically significant for its hexagonal layout and the extensive 17th-century interior renovations commissioned by Anne-Marie-Louise d'Orléans, the Grande Mademoiselle. The site is widely recognized for its massive historic pageant, involving over 600 volunteer actors and equestrian performances. Visitors can explore furnished period rooms, the extensive timber-framed roof structure, and the surrounding parklands. The castle has undergone multiple restorations, including a major structural effort to preserve its red-brick facade. It serves as a private residence that remains open to the public during the tourist season.
The lakeside path offering a full reflection of the castle's red-brick towers.
Book pageant tickets several weeks in advance as they sell out rapidly during the summer season.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the historic staircases and the extensive exterior grounds.
Bring a light jacket for the interior tours, as the thick masonry keeps the stone rooms significantly cooler than the outdoor temperature.
Visiting without checking the event calendar, as the castle grounds are often restricted during private pageant rehearsals or special productions.
Closed during the winter months; the historical pageant performances occur primarily on weekend evenings throughout the summer.
Maintain respectful behavior in the private residential wings and avoid touching the historical tapestries or furnishings.
