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Historical places

Château de Blandy

4.5 · 3,615 reviews
An evocative blend of medieval military history and modern cultural space.
Château de Blandy, 1 Pl. des Tours, 77115 Blandy, France
Interesting facts
1

The castle features a rare example of a 14th-century machicolated gallery that still supports the original defensive walkway.

2

It served as a filming location for the 1997 French historical film 'Le Bossu'.

3

The restoration project uncovered a hidden 13th-century residential wing that had been buried for centuries.

4

The castle's defensive design includes a 'curtain wall' that was raised significantly in height during the Hundred Years' War.

5

The site was abandoned in the 18th century and served as a farm and storage area for nearly 200 years before its preservation.

6

During the restoration, architects used contemporary steel and glass to differentiate new structural supports from original masonry.

Overview

Château de Blandy-les-Tours is a rare example of a medieval fortified castle in the Île-de-France region that retains its original layout. The structure features six distinct towers connected by a high curtain wall and an expansive outer bailey. Its current appearance is the result of a major restoration project completed in 2007, which stabilized the ruins while preserving historical layering. The site dates back to the 13th century and was significantly expanded by the Counts of Melun in the 14th century. Visitors can access the battlements and climb the keep for views of the surrounding Seine-et-Marne landscape. The castle interior hosts permanent exhibitions detailing its military architecture and the history of its owners. It is frequently used as a venue for contemporary theater, music festivals, and live performance art. The site is owned and managed by the Seine-et-Marne Departmental Council.

Photo spot

The view of the main gatehouse and the surrounding moat from the village square.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uneven stone stairs of the spiral staircases and battlements.

Check the official events calendar in advance, as the courtyard is often cleared for performances or seasonal festivals.

Bring a light jacket, as the stone walls keep the interior spaces significantly cooler than the outdoor temperatures.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb the towers if you have mobility issues or a fear of heights, as the steps are steep and narrow.

Good to know

Closed on certain weekdays during the winter season; check the official calendar for specific monthly closures.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn to enjoy the outdoor courtyards and ramparts without peak summer heat.
Address
Château de Blandy, 1 Pl. des Tours, 77115 Blandy, France
48.567, 2.781
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleMedieval military fortress with 13th-14th century Gothic elements
Key featuresSix defensive towers, original curtain walls, and a climbable keep

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn to enjoy the outdoor courtyards and ramparts without peak summer heat..

The view of the main gatehouse and the surrounding moat from the village square.

Close by you'll find Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, Château de Fontainebleau, Collégiale Saint-Martin de Champeaux.